John W. Radcliff II was apprehended last week and is facing a total of 190 charges that encompass sexual assault, sexual abuse, and incest, as detailed in a released statement by state authorities. Additionally, his wife, Kathy Radcliff, is also facing charges for allegedly being aware of the abuse as it occurred.
The accusations are said to have taken place in Braxton, Lewis, and Harrison counties. State police further noted that their investigation is ongoing, suggesting the likelihood of additional victims emerging and more charges being filed in the future.
Currently, John Radcliff, age 57, is being held on a bond set at $1.7 million, while Kathy Radcliff, 52, has a bond of $75,000. Both individuals are currently detained at the Central Regional Jail located in Sutton.
Radcliff participated in a preliminary hearing held Friday at the Lewis County Magistrate Court. His attorney, James Hawkins Jr., indicated that the charges against Radcliff concern alleged offenses involving five of his nieces that took place from 1987 to 1996, asserting that these matters are not connected to his former role as a youth pastor.
Hawkins emphasized that Radcliff maintains his innocence and is eager for the chance to defend himself against these allegations in court, as mentioned in a phone conversation.
There appear to be no records identifying whether Kathy Radcliff has legal representation available to provide statements regarding the accusations she faces in Lewis County.
According to the statement from state police, the investigation into John Radcliff was initiated by Trooper R.C. Watson in October, following up on an inquiry that another trooper had started back in 2004. The 2004 investigation’s findings have not been made public, and reports suggest that no charges were brought forward at that time. Attempts to reach Watson for an update were unsuccessful.
Hawkins mentioned the necessity of understanding the circumstances that surrounded the 2004 case and why it failed to advance through the legal system at that time.