Children’s Home Society: “Appalled” over sexual abuse allegations

Article from mypanhandle.com

PANAMA CITY, Fla.

The Children’s Home Society of Florida responded to allegations over its group home director having an alleged four year sexual relationship with a young girl.

In a statement to News 13, officials wrote:
“We were extremely appalled and disappointed to learn of these allegations. Our top priority is providing a safe haven for the youth in our care. Mr. Meeder is no longer employed by CHS. We are fully cooperating with BCSO, the Department of Children and Families, and Gulf Coast Children’s Advocacy Center in the investigative process. CHS has zero tolerance for actions that compromise the safety of any child. In no way do these allegations reflect the hard work of our dedicated staff. Nor do they reflect our organization’s high expectations and standards of care.”

Our original story:

The director of a Bay County group home had sex with a juvenile in his care from the time she was 14 until she was 18, according to the Bay County Sheriff’s Office.

Bryan Meeder, the director of Clair’s House, is charged with lewd and lascivious battery.

Investigators were able to obtain text messages Meeder sent to the victim and recordings of conversations between Meeder and the victim, officials wrote.

Meeder, 34, of Callaway, was located in Okaloosa County this weekend taking a group of juveniles from Clair’s House on a field trip to Destin. Meeder was arrested by the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office. He will be transported to the Bay County Jail.

“The BCSO is working on this case with the Department of Children and Families, Gulf Coast Children’s Advocacy Center, and the Children’s Home Society,” officials wrote.  “The investigation continues as authorities work to determine if additional juveniles may have been victimized.”

If you or someone you care about was sexually abused and you would like advice from an attorney about the rights and options for victims of child sexual abuse, please contact Crew Janci today for a free, confidential consultation at 1-888-407-0224 or by using our private online form.  We will treat you with discretion and respect.

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