Boy Scouts of America statement
In response to questions from The Times, BSA officials released the following statement:
“There is no abuse more abhorrent and intolerable than that of children, particularly to the Boy Scouts of America for which youth protection has always been a key priority. The Boy Scouts became aware of Mr. Turley’s conduct within 24 hours of it occurring and expelled him from Scouting in the U.S. In the thirty years since then, the BSA has continued to enhance its youth protection efforts as society has increased its understanding of the dangers children face. Since 1994 the BSA has required criminal background checks for all professionals and staff who work with youth. Today, all employees and volunteers go through a full computerized criminal background check and complete mandatory youth protection training. Any abuse -- or suspicion of abuse -- must be reported to local authorities and to the Council office and any anyone suspected is immediately banned from Scouting.”
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