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Boy Scouts of America Facing Thousands of Sexual Abuse Allegations While Approaching Bankruptcy

At least 82,000 former boy scouts have come forward with claims of sexual abuse against Boy Scouts of America (BSA). This is a monumental step against the bankruptcy-bound organization. Although these claims of abuse have been ongoing for many years, this is a new numbers estimate from Sunday (Nov. 15).

As the company faces these detrimental accusations, a spokesperson for the organization spoke on it. “We are devastated by the number of lives impacted by past abuse in scouting and moved by the bravery of those who have come forward.”

In addition, the spokesperson says that, “We are heartbroken that we cannot undo their pain.” Even though this is a nice sentiment, more action from the organization is obviously expected.

As CNN reports, “Sex abuse in the BSA was an ‘unspoken norm,’ according to Andrew Van Arsdale, one of the lead attorneys, who says he has communicated with thousands of alleged survivors over the past 19 months.” Another person spoke up in an interview with CNN saying that, “Based on what we are hearing from survivors, sexual abuse was a rite of passage in troops across the country, similar to other tasks where children had to … perform certain duties to earn their coveted merit badges.”

Boy Scouts of America Heading to Bankruptcy

In true BSA fashion, the organization filed for bankruptcy shortly after hundreds of former members came forward.

By filing for bankruptcy, Boy Scouts of America essentially negates the lawsuits against them. Though it doesn’t make the cases disappear, a bankruptcy filing does put them on the back burner. However, this means that the cases will never get a face-to-face trial.

However, it is still good news for the victims. By filing for bankruptcy, the Boy Scouts of America listed their assets. These assets come in around one to ten billion dollars with only as much as 500 million in liabilities. So for the sake of the victims that file claims, this may mean there is financial compensation heading their way.

As heartbreaking as this is, it seems that this behavior goes back decades and decades. Hopefully, those who were subjected to the abuse are able to move on and heal from the trauma.

All in all, this news is heartbreaking for those who suffered abuse or know them. All that can be done is hope that somehow the situation is rectified in the best way for each victim.