UK- Church elder jailed for sexual abuse, SNAP responds

By Barbara Dorris
Survivors Network of Those Abused by Priests
July 2, 2014

http://www.snapnetwork.org/uk_church_elder_jailed_for_sexual_abuse_snap_responds

Statement by Barbara Dorris of St. Louis, Outreach Director of SNAP, the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests (314 503 0003 cell, SNAPdorris@gmail.com)

A Jehovah’s Witness elder, who last week was found guilty of sexually assaulting two young girls and raping another woman, has been sentenced to 14 years in jail. We are grateful to the brave victims who helped get this dangerous predator locked up.

http://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/jehovahs-witness-elder-mark-sewell-7357318

According to the judge, Mark Sewell showed no signs of remorse, “groomed” at least one of his victims, and used his position of power within the Jehovah’s Witness to prey on these girls. We are glad the judge saw the true nature of sexual predators and sentenced him to 14 years.

Because of the brave victims who worked courageously to get Sewell behind bars, other children will be safer. We hope officials within the Jehovah’s Witness will reach out to any other possible victims who might be suffering in silence and self-blame.