Former West Virginia Youth Pastor and His Wife Accused of Decades-Long Sexual Abuse

Arrests Made in a Deeply Troubling Case of Child Sexual Abuse

West Virginia media outlets have reported that John Waitman Radcliff II, a former youth pastor who served at several local churches, and his wife, Kathy Jean Radcliff, have been arrested on alarming allegations of child sexual abuse that reportedly span nearly four decades. John Radcliff faces a wide range of serious criminal charges, including sexual assault, incest, child sexual abuse, and the display of obscene materials to minors. Kathy Radcliff has also been implicated, with authorities alleging that she aided in the abuse and directly participated in some of the criminal acts.

Cases of this nature highlight why having a skilled Morgantown criminal lawyer can make a meaningful difference for survivors seeking justice and accountability.

What Allegations Have Been Made Against John and Kathy Radcliff?

West Virginia authorities reopened a prior investigation into John Radcliff’s alleged conduct after receiving new, credible reports from additional individuals.

A Closer Look at the Investigation Timeline

• On October 28, 2024, West Virginia State Police TFC R.C. Watson formally launched a detailed investigation into the sexual assault allegations against John Radcliff.
• This new inquiry revisits a partially investigated case from 2004, pulling together critical evidence from multiple counties across the state.
• Multiple victims have come forward, with allegations of abuse reportedly dating back as far as 1986.

Charges Filed Against John Radcliff

John Waitman Radcliff II currently faces a total of 98 criminal charges, which include:

• 56 counts of first-degree sexual assault
• 15 counts of first-degree sexual abuse
• 63 counts of sexual abuse by a parent or guardian
• 56 counts of incest
• 1 count of displaying obscene material to a minor

Charges Filed Against Kathy Jean Radcliff

Kathy Jean Radcliff faces the following charges stemming from the investigation:

• 1 count of displaying obscene material to a minor
• 1 count of being an accessory to first-degree sexual abuse

Both individuals were apprehended on November 19 through a coordinated effort involving the Summersville Detachment of the West Virginia State Police. Authorities have confirmed that the investigation is still active, with additional victims reportedly continuing to come forward. If you or someone you know needs guidance through this process, a trusted Morgantown DUI attorney or criminal law specialist at Mountaineer Criminal Law Group can help.

A Disturbing Timeline of Alleged Abuse Spanning Nearly Four Decades

Investigators have uncovered a deeply troubling history of alleged abuse, with survivor testimonies describing incidents across nearly 40 years.

Voices of Survivors

Abuse Beginning in Early Childhood

One victim described experiencing abuse from an extremely young age, including being manipulated into inappropriate acts through the use of treats as a lure.

Kathy Radcliff’s Alleged Involvement

A separate survivor alleged that Kathy Radcliff actively played a role in exposing minors to explicit material and, in some instances, personally participated in abusive acts.

Abuse Across Multiple Locations

A third victim described incidents of abuse taking place in a range of settings, from church properties to private residences. In at least one instance, Kathy Radcliff reportedly apologized to a victim for her role in the abuse—a detail that has become significant to the ongoing case.

These accounts illustrate why survivors benefit from working alongside a compassionate Morgantown criminal lawyer who can help them navigate the legal process with clarity and confidence. All survivors are strongly encouraged to report incidents to West Virginia state authorities.

Breakdown of Charges by County

The charges against John Radcliff span several counties throughout West Virginia, reflecting the wide-reaching scope of the alleged abuse.

Lewis County (1987–2003)

• 7 counts of first-degree sexual abuse
• 5 counts of first-degree sexual assault
• 12 counts of sexual abuse by a parent or guardian
• 5 counts of incest
• 1 count of displaying obscene material to a minor

Braxton County (1995–2000)

• 15 counts of first-degree sexual assault
• 15 counts of sexual abuse by a guardian
• 15 counts of incest

Harrison County (2003)

• 1 count of first-degree sexual assault
• 1 count of sexual abuse by a parent or guardian
• 1 count of incest

Nicholas County (2018–2019)

• 5 counts of second-degree sexual assault
• 8 counts of sexual abuse by a guardian
• 8 counts of incest

John Radcliff remains in custody, with bond set at $1.7 million. Kathy Radcliff’s bond has been set at $75,000 in connection with her charges as an accomplice.

If you or someone you know has been impacted by this case, the team at Mountaineer Criminal Law Group is available to provide professional and compassionate legal support. Reach out to a Morgantown DUI attorney at (304) 832-8350.

Could There Be More Survivors?

Investigators believe the number of victims may be significantly higher than currently documented. Authorities suggest that at least 13 or more individuals have yet to come forward. West Virginia State Troopers are actively urging anyone with relevant information—or anyone who has been directly affected by the alleged actions of John or Kathy Radcliff—to step forward and report what they know. Reports can be made by calling (304) 832-8350.

Pursuing Justice and Compensation

While no legal outcome can undo decades of trauma, holding those responsible accountable remains a vital step in the healing process for survivors. Victims throughout West Virginia have found support through the dedicated legal team at Mountaineer Criminal Law Group, who are experienced in handling complex and sensitive cases of this nature. Whether you need a seasoned Morgantown criminal lawyer or need guidance on your legal rights as a survivor, their team is ready to help.

If you or someone close to you is ready to take the next step toward justice, contact the attorneys. Their team is here to listen, advocate, and fight on your behalf. Call (304) 832-8350 today.

Survivors deserve to be heard—and the right legal support can help make that possible.