It’s easy to assume that purpotrators of sexual abuse are never getting punished. The Epstien files, and the complete lack of prosecution from the government, has cemented this idea in society that abusers are getting away with their crimes, and no one can do a thing to stop them.

Luckily, not every child abuser is rich and powerful, or benefits from experienced lawyers of their congregation. In the case of Terrance Booker, a jury took only 45 minutes to conclude that he had molested a child from 2010 all the way to 2015. This victim had chosen to come forward only because there were others that reported on it. His lawyer said that upon hearing that Booker had abused others, he became sick, and was able to overcome his shame in the hopes of defending others.

This young man showed more courage and dignity then Terrance will ever know. With this first victory, this child abuser faces 3 more trials, which means that he faces a potential life sentence. This is yet another clear warning that churches are beacons for these types of sickos. Their access to vulnerable children, along with their extreme authority given to them by their roles make these positions ideal for predators. The complicitness of religious organizations only further incentivizes them to join.

It would appear that there will never be enough victims for the faithful to finally open their eyes and see the problem. But perhaps there is still hope, so long as victims continue to fight to save the rest of us from these perverts.