Today, a lawsuit was filed accusing President Russell M. Nelson’s daughter and son-in-law of child sex abuse. The alleged abuse occurred 32 years ago.

I don’t have an opinion on whether or not the allegations are true. What I know is that the charges have been made in full public view. The defense will be grueling and expensive. No matter what, reputations will be tarnished. If a verdict is rendered in favor of the plaintiffs, reputations will be destroyed.

You can read about the suit in the Deseret News, the Salt Lake Tribune or watch it on Fox News. The actual lawsuit filing can be found HERE.

So bishops, what does this have to do with you? We are in a different era than in 1986. Back then, no cell phones (mini-recorders), little concern with adults alone with children, no #metoo movement, certainly no #mormonmetoo movement.

All that has changed. If someone accuses you of abuse of any kind while you were behind that closed door, all alone with a child & talking about sex, YOU WILL HAVE NO DEFENSE. Our society doesn’t have sympathy for an adult who should have known better. They will sympathize with the child every time.

Can you afford to lose your reputation?

Can you afford to defend against a criminal charge?

A stake in my home town of Houston recently instructed its bishops: “Conduct every interview under the assumption that you are being recorded.” Wise counsel.

Better counsel: No one-on-one interviews, no sexual questions ever.