BC Supreme Court Delivers Verdict in Historical Abuse Case

A former minister of the fundamentalist sect known as the 2x2s has been found not guilty of historical sexual abuse charges. The decision was handed down today in New Westminster by Justice Michael Stephens.

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The Trial Overview

Lee-Ann McChesney faced charges of sexual assault and sexual exploitation involving a single complainant. The allegations dated back to 1989, occurring in Terrace, Delta, and Surrey while McChesney was serving as a “worker” (minister) for the church.

The complainant, Lyndell Montgomery, had waived her right to a publication ban to share her story publicly. She testified that the incidents occurred when she was 14 and 15 years old while living under McChesney’s care.

The Verdict

In his ruling, Justice Stephens noted the following:

• Reasonable Doubt: While acknowledging the gravity of the testimony, the judge ruled that the Crown failed to meet the high burden of proof required for a criminal conviction.
• Trial Shift: Though initially scheduled as a jury trial, the proceedings were converted to a judge-alone trial at the request of the defense.

Broader Implications for the “2x2s”

This acquittal follows a string of recent legal challenges for the secretive religious group, often referred to by members as “The Way” or “The Truth.”

• Systemic Scrutiny: The group has faced intense international pressure since 2024, following an FBI investigation into allegations of a “culture of silence” regarding abuse within the ministry.
• Ongoing Advocacy: Despite the verdict, Montgomery stated outside the court that coming forward was a necessary step in her personal recovery and expressed hope that her transparency would encourage other survivors within the group to speak out.