SPOKANE -- The first of 19 sexual abuse civil lawsuits against Morning Star Boys Ranch is now in the hands of a jury. Attorney's for both sides presented closing arguments Tuesday.
Kenny Putnam alleges he was sexually abused at the ranch in the late 1980's. In front of a packed courtroom, the plaintiffs and the defense made one last, impassioned plea for their side. Now, it's up to the jury. In order for Putnam to win, 10 of the 12 jurors have to agree.
Plaintiff co-counsel Dan Fasy opened up the closing arguments, establishing an alleged history of abuse, establishing the claim of negligence and civil conspiracy by Morning Star. Kenny Putnam says he was abused by former director Father Joe Weitensteiner and late counselor Doyle Gillum. He cited four other witnesses who claim to have been sexually abused. He cited lack of oversight at the ranch. He told the jury the staff conspired to keep it all quiet.
Defense attorney Jim King went through his facts. He argued the plaintiff's chief witnesses are not believable and that Putnam himself is not believable.
There are 18 other civil abuse cases against Morning Star. But what happens in this case will go a long way to determine how those other lawsuits play out.
