Introduction to a Crucial Issue
A heartbreaking story of abuse and silence has led to a significant movement in Texas. Elizabeth Carlock Phillips’ brother, Trey Carlock, was a victim of serial sex offender Pete Newman from Missouri-based summer camp Kanakuk Kamps. The abuse started when Trey was just 7 years old and continued for a decade, ultimately leading to his death by suicide at the age of 28. The tragedy was further complicated by a nondisclosure agreement (NDA) that prevented Trey from speaking out about his abuse.
The Impact of Nondisclosure Agreements
Trey was forced to file a civil case against Kanakuk Kamps by the time he was 23 due to the Texas Civil Statute of Limitations. The case ended with a settlement that included a restrictive NDA. This meant that Trey was not allowed to discuss his abuse, which can be a significant barrier to healing for victims. Phillips has now become an advocate for changing the law to prevent others from suffering the same fate as her brother. She wants to be a voice for Trey and other victims who are silenced by NDAs.
Advocates and Survivors Speak Out
Phillips was one of several child sexual abuse advocates and survivors who shared their testimonies at a Texas House committee hearing. They were there to support a bill that seeks to prohibit the misuse of NDAs against child sexual abuse and trafficking victims in civil settlement agreements. This bill, known as "Trey’s Law," was approved unanimously and will now move to the full House of Representatives for approval. After the House vote, the bill would still need Senate approval to pass in the Texas Legislature and reach the governor’s desk.
The Story of Cindy Clemishire
Among those who spoke at the hearing was Cindy Clemishire, who alleged that she was abused by Robert Morris, the founding pastor of Gateway Church. Morris was recently indicted on child sexual abuse charges in Oklahoma. Clemishire accused Morris of abusing her in the 1980s when she was a child. She refused to sign an NDA in 2007 that was offered to her as part of a settlement. Clemishire’s story highlights the devastating impact of abuse and the importance of allowing victims to speak out.
The Problem with NDAs
NDAs were originally created to protect business secrets, but they have been misused in cases of sexual misconduct. They can prevent victims from discussing their abuse, which can be traumatic and prevent them from healing. Rep. Jeff Leach, who filed the bill, said that NDAs can be a "re-traumatization of a victim." He believes that victims should be allowed to tell their stories without fear of retaliation or losing their settlement.
Conclusion
The stories of Trey Carlock and Cindy Clemishire are a reminder of the importance of protecting victims of child sexual abuse. The use of NDAs to silence victims is a significant problem that needs to be addressed. "Trey’s Law" is a crucial step towards preventing the misuse of NDAs and allowing victims to speak out. By passing this law, Texas can help to ensure that victims of child sexual abuse are able to heal and seek justice without being silenced.
