A Mighty Steed: Details Released in Another Abuse Case
jonathanturley
Stories on child abuse with the Scouts are increasingly being heard, particularly after discovery in a recent lawsuit. One shocking account involves a brave 14-year-old counselor named Adam Steed (shown left) who refused to allow leadership to allegedly cover up the presence of a molester in their ranks. Steed and counselor Brad Stowell were part of a Mormon-based scouting program.
Steed confronted the director at a camp with the accusation that “Brad Stowell is molesting Scouts.” Stowell was an individual who was trusted within the community despite his habit of sleeping with the boys and massaging them. What is fascinating is that, while Steed complained that Stowell was touching them inappropriately, he says that the director Elias Lopez assured him “We’ve talked to Brad. He promised me he doesn’t massage below the waist.” When Steed asked to leave, he says Lopez told him to stay. What he asked to call his parents, he says Lopez told him not to tell them about Stowell.
Eventually Stowell was arrested and pleaded guilty due to Steed’s organization of kids to force a call to the police. He was, however, only sentenced to 150 days despite accusations that he molested 24 boys.
Stowell, 32, is now planning to attend law school. He remains an Eagle Scout with five palms. Steed never made it to Eagle Scout.
