Royal Rangers, Christian Scouting Alternative, Faces Allegations of Sexual Abuse Cover-Up

Analysis & Context

The Royal Rangers, a Christian scouting alternative operated by the Assemblies of God denomination, is facing multiple lawsuits alleging decades of sexual abuse and systematic institutional cover-up. The allegations span from the 1970s to recent years and involve victims across multiple states.

Former members have come forward with accusations that the organization failed to properly screen leaders, ignored reports of abuse, and actively worked to conceal misconduct to protect the ministry's reputation. The lawsuits describe a pattern strikingly similar to the abuse crisis that engulfed the Boy Scouts of America.

According to court filings, multiple Royal Rangers leaders were allowed to continue serving in positions with access to children even after allegations of abuse were reported to organizational leadership. In some cases, accused leaders were simply transferred to different chapters rather than removed from the program entirely.

The Assemblies of God, which oversees the Royal Rangers program, has faced criticism for its response to the allegations. Survivors and their attorneys argue that the denomination prioritized protecting its brand and avoiding liability over the safety of the children in its care.

The lawsuits seek damages for the physical and psychological harm suffered by victims, as well as institutional reforms to prevent future abuse. Plaintiffs are calling for mandatory background checks, independent oversight of youth programs, and transparent reporting of all abuse allegations to law enforcement.

The Royal Rangers case adds to a growing body of evidence that youth-serving organizations within religious institutions face unique accountability challenges. The combination of spiritual authority, institutional loyalty, and inadequate oversight creates conditions where predators can operate with impunity for years or even decades.