The Radcliffe Case: An Overview

A Startling Revelation

John Radcliff, once a respected youth pastor and trusted member of his community, is facing serious accusations of sexually abusing at least five individuals over a span of two decades starting in the 1980s. These allegations paint a distressing picture of systematic predatory behavior, with reports including sexual assault, incest, and the abuse of minors.

Adding to the gravity of the situation, his wife, Kathy Radcliff, faces charges as well. Prosecutors allege she not only enabled her husband’s actions but also actively participated in the assaults. The charges, which span multiple counties such as Lewis, Harrison, Nicholas, and Braxton, reveal a massive breach of trust, particularly as the couple used their positions within the church to exploit vulnerable individuals.

These grim revelations are a harsh reminder of how abuse can persist in positions of authority and the lasting trauma it inflicts on survivors.

Legal Options for Sexual Abuse Survivors

For survivors of sexual abuse in West Virginia, there are legal avenues to seek accountability and compensation. Beyond criminal charges, which aim to penalize offenders, civil lawsuits provide survivors with an opportunity to secure justice for damages caused by the abuser’s actions.

Key Considerations for Sexual Abuse Civil Claims

1. Statute of Limitations

Victims of abuse who were adults at the time have a two-year window to file a civil claim in West Virginia. However, for survivors of child sexual abuse, they have until the age of 36 to bring forward their case under W. Va. Code Ann. § 55-2-15.

2. Accountability of Institutions

When the abuse occurs in association with an institution, such as a church, survivors may have a case against that organization. Institutions can be held liable if evidence proves negligence, failure to report the abuse, or inadequate safeguards that allowed the misconduct to persist.

3. Compensation for Damages 

Civil lawsuits empower survivors by providing financial compensation to address the impact of the abuse. This may include payment for medical expenses, psychological therapy, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Why Legal Support is Vital

Navigating a legal claim can be overwhelming, especially for those carrying the weight of trauma. A skilled and caring legal team of our West Virginia sex abuse lawyer is instrumental in helping survivors exercise their legal rights and hold predators accountable.

At Mountaineer Criminal Law Group, we stand firmly with survivors. Our goal is to provide more than just legal counsel—we aim to support and empower survivors throughout the process. It takes immense courage to confront past abuses. We are committed to making sure your voice is heard and justice is pursued.

Take Action to Seek Justice

If you or someone you know has been harmed by individuals like John or Kathy Radcliff, or by faith leaders from any denomination, you could have legal avenues available to you—even if the abuse happened years ago.

Compassionate West Virginia injury lawyer, head of our Institutional Abuse & Neglect division, offers free consultations designed to minimize retraumatization. Over her career, Sharon has dedicated herself to protecting survivors like you.

Sharon is deeply involved in the American Association for Justice’s Child Sexual Abuse, Sexual Assault, and Anti-Human Trafficking sections. She also co-moderates the “Journey to Justice” webinar series, a 14-part training program for lawyers handling these specialized cases. The team of West Virginia sex abuse lawyers has a strong track record representing survivors in West Virginia and beyond, including high-profile cases against institutions like juvenile detention centers.

Call us now at (304) 381-3656 for guidance on your legal options.

Why Survivors Choose Mountaineer Criminal Law Group

At Mountaineer Criminal Law Group, we are proud to deliver both results and compassionate representation. Survivors of sexual abuse deserve respect, empathy, and justice—and we fight tirelessly to obtain the maximum compensation owed to them.

We bring expertise, attention, and the necessary resources to build strong cases. By partnering with leading experts when required, we strengthen your case and ensure no detail goes unnoticed.

Contact Us For Legal Support

If you’re ready to take the next step toward justice, reach out to the Mountaineer Criminal Law Group today. Call us at (304) 381-3656 to schedule your free, confidential consultation. You are not alone—our experienced team of West Virginia injury lawyers is here to guide and support you.