Inola, Oklahoma — In a significant development, four individuals have brought forward a lawsuit accusing parties of negligence linked to a local pastor, Roy Shoop, who is currently serving a 25-year sentence for crimes that shook the community. These charges stem from alarming incidents of lewd molestation and rape by instrumentation which were exposed following diligent investigation.
In 2020, Shoop was apprehended following claims of molestation involving underage girls, purportedly taking place at his nearby ranch, adjacent to the Inola Cowboy Gatherin’ church. The investigation, handled by the Rogers County Sheriff’s Office, painted a grim picture of abuse cloaked in a facade of pastoral duty.
Sheriff Scott Walton shared insights into the early investigation phases, indicating that the case was complex, involving a well-regarded pastor from a tight-knit community which made the proceedings particularly sensitive.
Filed on February 14, the lawsuit implicates not only Shoop but also his wife, Diana Shoop, their associated business entities, the Craig-Mayes Baptist Association, and the Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma. The legal claim enumerates nine counts of negligence, casting a wide net over those allegedly complicit in or willfully ignorant of the abuses.
When contacted for a response, Diana Shoop replied succinctly, noting that they had not yet been officially served with the lawsuit, thereby declining to comment further at that stage.
Amid these legal proceedings, there is a shared hope amongst investigators and attorneys that this lawsuit will prompt other potential victims to come forward. An attorney representing the victims stated that this case was critical not only for the individuals directly involved but also in addressing what they describe as a systemic abuse and cover-up within the Cowboy Gatherin’ Church and the broader Southern Baptist Convention network.
Sheriff Walton also reflected on Shoop’s conduct during his arrest, describing it as particularly alarming and saying it resembled a deeply troubling demeanor. Such details underscore the unsettling nature of the allegations and the impact on the local community.
Further intensifying the situation, Walton disclosed the belief that there are still many more victims who have not yet come forward. This statement reflects a somber reality that the scope of Shoop’s misconduct may be broader than currently documented, suggesting that the case’s repercussions could expand as new testimonies emerge.
The lawsuit aims to not only seek reparations for the victims but also to hold accountable all entities and individuals that might have facilitated or ignored the predatory actions. The wider community and observers now watch closely as the case unfolds, anticipating potentially more revelations and hoping for justice for all affected parties.
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