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Image: A Google Earth view of the exterior of Shekinah Glory Camp in Cedar Rapids, IA.
People Magazine online reports that authorities in Iowa removed 88 children from a religious summer camp following serious allegations of child abuse and endangerment. The intervention came after a 15-year-old camper reportedly called for help, prompting a multi-agency response to the Shekinah Glory Camp of the Kingdom Ministry of Rehabilitation and Recreation in Columbus Junction.
The camp, which had been scheduled to run from June 8 to June 29, was raided on June 12 and 13 by officials from the Louisa County Sheriff’s Office, the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services, the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Columbus Junction Police Department. Acting on search warrants, officials removed the children from the premises and transported them to Wapello Methodist Church, where child protection workers interviewed them.
Some children were promptly reunited with their parents or guardians, while others were placed in temporary foster care. By Monday, June 16, State Representative Taylor Collins stated that all the children had been safely returned to their families.
Victor Bawi, whose father ministers at the church affiliated with the camp, told reporters that the 15-year-old boy who called authorities was from Texas and simply didn’t want to be there. Bawi denied any mistreatment, stating, “We never harmed that child. We loved him.” He described the camp as providing food, shelter, and care, including buying the child expensive clothing.
Bawi also said neither he nor his father had been interviewed by investigators as of the time of reporting. “We’re innocent. They’re not going to find anything,” he told local media. “Never abuse anyone. You can ask the children as well, they were having fun.”
The camp’s mission includes helping individuals overcome addiction through religious teachings and providing support during periods of fasting and prayer.
Despite Bawi’s statements, the investigation remains active. As of June 16, no arrests have been made.
Survivors of institutional abuse can learn more about their legal rights and how to pursue justice by visiting this resource or fill out the contact form below.
