WERE YOU SEXUALLY ABUSED BY PASTORS, CHURCH STAFF, OR CHURCH MEMBERS?
You May Be Entitled To Substantial Compensation
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VINEYARD USA CHURCH NETWORK SEX ABUSE LAWSUITS
Fighting For Survivors of Sexual Abuse involving the Vineyard USA Church Network
The Vineyard USA Church Network has failed its most vulnerable members: children and survivors of abuse. From the alleged grooming and assaults to the systemic failures, the allegations are horrific. Survivors need an advocate who will fight tirelessly for their rights. We urge you to lead a transformative legal effort that not only seeks justice but also forces institutional change. Together, we can ensure that no survivor is ever silenced, and no institution is ever allowed to prioritize secrecy over safety. Contact Levy Konigsberg today.
Were you sexually abused?
History of Sexual Abuse involving the Vineyard USA Church Network
Examples of alleged abuse, and of conditions likely to lead to abuse, include the following:
- In June 2025, a lawsuit was filed in California claiming the the Dwelling Place (previously the mother church of the Vineyard USA church network) allowed youth leader Ryan Doezie unchecked access to a victim, which allegedly led to his grooming, sexual abuse, and physical abuse as a minor between 2006 and 2011. Doezie allegedly sexually assaulted the victim by touching his body and genitals, masturbating him, orally assaulting him, penetrating him, and digging his nails into his skin. He would isolate the victim by driving him alone to fast food restaurants or church events, giving him gifts and food, and regularly taking him to his home. Church leaders were allegedly warned about Doezie’s behavior but failed to take action. Instead, they placed him in positions of authority over minors, allowed poorly supervised interactions, neglected safeguards, and failed to inform the victim’s parents about the abuse.
- In October 2023, Jackson Gatlin, a former youth pastor and son of senior leaders at Duluth Vineyard Church in Minnesota was charged with 10 felony counts of criminal sexual conduct involving five girls. He allegedly assaulted his victims, aged 11 to 16, between 2007 and 2010.
In November 2024, he pleaded guilty to sexually assaulting multiple girls under his supervision and agreed to a 13-year prison sentence.
In January 2025, nine civil lawsuits were filed against Gatlin, Duluth Vineyard Church in Minnesota, and Vineyard USA.
An independent investigation found that his parents, Michael and Brenda Gatlin (Duluth Vineyard leaders), allegedly covered up his crimes.
In February 2025, Vineyard USA faced public criticism for how they handled accusations against Michael and Brenda Gatlin.
- In November 2022, a former member of the church shared her story of sexual assault at a church gathering in 2016 and alleged institutional abuse within Vineyard USA. She claimed she reported the assault to a youth leader who ignored her and alleged the organization used intimidation and avoided accountability.
- In November 2019, a report revealed that former Vineyard leader Carl Medearis allegedly engaged in misconduct, including sexual misconduct, exploitation, grooming and abuse of authority.
We specialize in sexual abuse lawsuits against powerful institutions. These include government entities (such as prisons, schools, and juvenile detention / juvenile treatment centers), technology companies, and clergy.
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Who Can You Sue in a Sex Abuse Civil Case?
In a sex abuse civil case, the parties you might sue can vary depending on the circumstances of the abuse and the relationships involved.
Some potential parties that could be sued in a sex abuse civil case include:
- Individual Perpetrator: The alleged perpetrator of the sexual abuse can be named as a defendant in the lawsuit. This is often the person who directly committed the abusive acts.
- Institutions and Organizations: If the abuse occurred within an institution or organization, such as a school, church, sports club, or workplace, and they failed to take appropriate action to prevent or address the abuse, they might also be held liable.
- Employers: If the perpetrator was an employee of an organization or institution, the employer might be held vicariously liable for the actions of their employee if the abuse occurred within the scope of their employment.
- Property Owners: If the abuse occurred on a property owned by someone else, and the property owner failed to provide adequate security or take reasonable steps to prevent the abuse, they might be considered liable.
- Government Entities: In some cases, government entities might be involved, especially if the abuse occurred within a state institution or facility. Suing a government entity might involve specific procedures and limitations.
Sex abuse cases can be legally complex, so it's highly advisable to consult with experienced legal professionals who specialize in this area to understand your options and pursue the appropriate legal action. Levy Konigsberg, along with our team of sexual abuse lawyers, is available to provide assistance for your sexual abuse case.
Do I Have a Case?
You may have a sexual abuse claim against the Church if:
- You were sexually abused as a minor or an adult within the Church.
- The abuser was a pastor, youth leader, or some other Church volunteer or employee.
- Your abuse occurred at any time in the past.
You may still have a claim even if:
- Your abuser is no longer alive.
- Your abuser was never charged with or convicted of a crime.
Determining whether you have grounds to pursue a claim can be challenging, which is why our team at Levy Konigsberg is readily available to help.
Recoverable Damages in Sexual Abuse Claims
In addition to providing accountability and a sense of justice, civil sex abuse lawsuits allow survivors to recover financial compensation for their damages, which may include:
- Past medical and mental health expenses
- Future mental health expenses, including therapy, medications, etc.
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional anguish and psychological harm
- Lost income
- Other economic and non-economic damages
Levy Konigsberg is actively investigating allegations of sexual abuse perpetrated by members of religious groups, such as the Assemblies of God, Church of the Nazarene, Jehovah’s Witness, Mormon/LDS Church, and Vineyard USA Church Network.
At Levy Konigsberg, we’re passionate about helping survivors tell their stories, as we know they are a powerful tool for achieving accountability, protecting others, and ensuring that justice is served. If you have a potential case involving sexual abuse, improper handling of complaints by a church official, or church cover-up, we want to help.
Trust Levy Konigsberg's Legal Team for Proven Results in Sexual Abuse and Negligence Cases
Levy Konigsberg LLP, a nationally recognized law firm, has built a legacy over three decades, recovering over $3 billion in sexual abuse compensation for clients. Led by award-winning sexual abuse lawyers, we specialize in representing survivors in sexual abuse across the country, taking on powerful institutions. Our top-rated trial practice handles all types of sexual abuse or negligence cases, showcasing numerous testimonials and successful case results.