Molestation victim: Justice has been served

September 8, 2008 12:15 am

I would like to say a few final words about the conviction of the former Rev. George O. Lowe ["Minister given 5 years on molestation count," Sept. 3].

Someone asked me why I wanted to bring something that happened so long ago back out into the open. The reason is accountability.

Now that he has been sentenced to prison, I can finally start to let these wounds heal.

The past 20-plus years has been a life of depression, drug and alcohol problems, marital problems, and suicidal idealization because of the evil actions of George Lowe, a so-called man of God who sat on his throne for 43 years causing damage to who knows how many other lives.

I could not let things lie and move on, as was the standard reply over the years.

Before sentencing, Lowe's attorney asked for those who were in the courtroom to please stand to show support for Lowe.

I want to know why no one stood for the rights of other children, why no one stood to get this man removed from the stand at Mount Hope Baptist Church after I came to church officials in 1988.

I am happy that justice has prevailed, and Lowe will be where he will not hurt anyone anymore.

I hope this case will serve as a warning to others out there who may want to hurt children for their own pleasure. They will be caught, and they will be punished.

If there are victims out there of Lowe or anyone else, they should come forward. Let the law work for you as it has for me.

I'd like to thank the Stafford County Sheriff's Office, Detective Don Lenhart, the commonwealth's attorney's office, and the Victims' Witness office for helping me see this through.

I would like to also thank the Rappahannock Council Against Sexual Assault, the Rappahannock Community Service Board, the staff at Virginia Cares, and the Rappahannock Security Center mental health staff for helping me work through the many layers of issues I have.

I know that one day I will have to forgive Lowe. I will do that in my time and my time only. For now, I am happy that justice has been served.

Benjamin Marsh

Stafford