West Virginia state police are investigating John W. Radcliff II, a longtime youth pastor now facing nearly 200 counts of child abuse charges spanning more than 30 years. The charges, many involving his own relatives, have reignited attention on allegations that first surfaced nearly two decades ago but never resulted in prosecution, The New York Times’ Billy Witz reported Nov. 27.
A Legacy of Allegations
Radcliff, 57, was first arrested in September after a complaint in Nicholas County alleged abuse between 2018 and 2019. Subsequent investigations uncovered accusations from as far back as 1987, including a 2004 case in which five of his nieces accused him of sexual abuse. No charges were filed at the time, leaving victims like Carla Rinehart, one of the nieces, without closure.
Rinehart, now 38 and running a child-care center, recalls how her hospitalization at age 17 led her to confide in family members, discovering that several relatives had endured similar abuse. “West Virginia is a small state; word gets around very quickly,” she said. “We didn’t want anyone to push her statement aside like ours was. We were, ‘This happened to us. You have to believe her.’”
Widespread Impact
The allegations span four counties and have shaken communities where Radcliff served as a youth pastor in at least four churches. While his wife, Kathy Radcliff, has been charged with knowing about the abuse and has been released on bond, John Radcliff remains in custody with bonds totaling $1.7 million.
Radcliff’s court-appointed lawyer has dismissed the charges as “uncorroborated statements” and emphasized that most accusations predate his client’s work as a pastor. He stated that these allegations were reviewed in 2004, but no charges were filed due to insufficient evidence. Radcliff faces a potential life sentence, with over 100 years if convicted.
Renewed Investigations and Growing Support
The ongoing investigation has encouraged more victims to come forward, according to state police. Meanwhile, the case is expected to go before a grand jury next year.
Radcliff’s arrest has also galvanized survivors like Rinehart and her relatives to advocate for the latest victims. After learning of his September arrest, they approached law enforcement to support the new accuser and ensure their voices were heard this time.
“We were determined to make sure this complaint wasn’t ignored,” Rinehart said. “This time, we wanted to be believed.”
What Comes Next
As the investigation continues, the case highlights not only the decades-long allegations against Radcliff but also systemic issues in handling abuse cases. Survivors and advocates stress the importance of believing victims and providing the resources needed to pursue justice.
The Radcliff case serves as a stark reminder of the long-lasting effects of abuse and the challenges of ensuring accountability, even decades later.
