Boy Scouts of America sued for nuisance seeking release of nearly 3,000 hidden perpetrators.
New Jersey Boy Scouts Sexual Abuse Survivor speaks publicly for the first time.
This press conference discusses a lawsuit filed against the Boy Scouts of America under a public nuisance theory and features survivor Richard Halverson speaking publicly about his abuse for the first time. The speakers explain that the case seeks disclosure of additional “perversion files” or ineligible volunteer files that the organization allegedly kept on abusive scout leaders, arguing that secrecy about those records has left children and families uninformed about known risks. The survivor also describes why he chose to use his name publicly, emphasizing that he wants the truth known and hopes other survivors will feel empowered to come forward.
The broader message of the press conference is that policies alone are not enough if institutions do not also disclose what they know about past offenders and how abuse was handled. The speakers argue that transparency is essential to child safety, accountability, and survivor healing, and that public disclosure of names and records can help other victims realize they were not alone. By filing this lawsuit and speaking publicly, the survivor and his advocates aim to push for fuller disclosure, raise awareness in New Jersey and beyond, and help prevent future abuse.