The LDS Church’s Coverup of Sterling Van Wagenen’s Sexual Abuse Pt. 2 | Ep. 1111

In February of this year, the Truth & Transparency Foundation released an audio recording made by Sean Escobar as he confronted his abuser as a child, Sterling Van Wagenen—co-founder of the Sundance Film Festival and director of many LDS Church-produced films, including the films shown in LDS temples. The story of the abuse and its impact has now made national news, spurred by the continuing coverage of The Truth and Transparency Foundation as it was revealed that even though the abuse was reported to LDS Church authorities, Sterling was not excommunicated, but went on to work as a professor at Brigham Young University and produce many LDS Church films.

Since the release of the audio recording by TTF, Sterling has since pled guilty to separate charges of child sex abuse in Utah and is currently awaiting sentencing.

Sean and Crystal Escobar bravely recount their experiences with child abuse within the LDS community, shedding light on the systemic cover-up of abuse cases, as discussed in their candid interview with John Dehlin. Sean recalls the traumatic night of the abuse, highlighting the psychological toll and the church's failure to provide adequate support. Crystal shares her own experience with abuse and the complexities of reconciling her love for her father with the truth about his actions. The interview delves into the church's culture of secrecy, victim shaming, and the broader implications of institutional protection. Sean's journey toward confronting the abuser and advocating for other victims is a testament to his resilience and commitment to fostering change within the community. Their powerful narrative serves as a rallying call for transparency, accountability, and the protection of vulnerable individuals within religious organizations.