In a deeply troubling exposé, this story uncovers the hidden world of child sex abuse allegations within the Mormon Church (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) and the struggle for justice faced by survivors like Chelsea Goodrich. Chelsea’s story sheds light on the church’s approach to such cases, including the use of confidentiality agreements and the complex issue of clergy-penitent privilege.
Chelsea Goodrich, a survivor of child sex abuse, recounted her traumatic experiences to Paul Rytting, a Utah attorney and the head of the church’s Risk Management Division. Chelsea’s father, a former bishop within the church, had abused her during her childhood. Rytting, who had spent years protecting the church from costly claims, including sexual abuse lawsuits, met with Chelsea and her mother in 2017.
During their meetings, Rytting expressed concern for John Goodrich’s “significant sexual transgression” but followed a risk management playbook designed to keep child sexual abuse cases confidential. He cited clergy-penitent privilege, a law that exempted clergy from disclosing information about child sex abuse that was revealed during confession, as a reason for discouraging Bishop Michael Miller from testifying. Without Miller’s testimony, the criminal charges against John Goodrich were dropped, leaving him a free man.
Rytting also made an offer to Chelsea and her mother, proposing a substantial monetary settlement in exchange for a confidentiality agreement. The agreement required them to destroy the recordings of their meetings, which had been made at the recommendation of an attorney and with Rytting’s knowledge.
John Goodrich, the accused, ultimately faced minimal consequences, pleading guilty to distribution of a controlled substance and receiving a short jail sentence and probation.
Chelsea’s case sheds light on the secretive and often problematic way the Mormon Church handles child sex abuse allegations. Rytting’s use of confidentiality agreements and the church’s reliance on clergy-penitent privilege are part of a larger pattern within religious organizations that can leave survivors without justice and predators free to harm others.
Chelsea’s decision to share her story with the AP highlights her ongoing concern for the safety of other children and the need for accountability and transparency within religious institutions in addressing child sex abuse allegations.
