JEHOVAH’S
WITNESSES
More than 10 years revealing secrets because there is no excuse for secrecy in religion – w1997 June 1; Dan 2:47; Matt 10:26; Mark 4:22; Luke 12:2; Acts 4:19, 20.
JEHOVAH’S
WITNESSES
More than 10 years revealing secrets because there is no excuse for secrecy in religion – w1997 June 1; Dan 2:47; Matt 10:26; Mark 4:22; Luke 12:2; Acts 4:19, 20.
Zelienople Kingdom Hall Of Jehovah’s Witnesses where the Sheffer Family attended
Written By: Miss Usato Last Updated: January 24th, 2025
This article provides a deeply emotional and in-depth account of a five-day PA AG Grand Jury criminal trial on Shaun Sheffer in Butler County, PA. It examines the complex tensions within the Jehovah’s Witness community, highlighting how decisions to leave or remain in the faith can fracture families, silence discussions about abuse, and create moral conflicts between protecting reputations and addressing wrongdoing. Based on trial notes, witness interviews, and testimony from 17 individuals, the article exposes the treatment of abuse survivors and those outside the community. Please note that this is a trial regarding Child Sexual Abuse including sensitive information, and it can be triggering. To link to specific days, witnesses, or personal statements, follow the hyperlinks in the detailed breakdown below.
How the Pennsylvania Grand Jury Investigation into Jehovah’s Witnesses Began
The Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office began investigating the Jehovah’s Witnesses in 2019 after a victim in York County reported abuse. This disclosure led to a broader inquiry into the organization’s handling of child sexual abuse allegations and its failure to report such cases to authorities. Recognizing the potential for widespread abuse within the community, the AG’s office convened a Grand Jury, issuing subpoenas to Jehovah’s Witness congregations across Pennsylvania. A tip line (888-538-8441) based in a call center in Harrisburg, PA, was also launched to gather additional information from victims and witnesses.
Since the investigation began, 16 members of the Jehovah’s Witnesses have been charged with child sexual abuse, including three in Butler County. A trusted source indicated seven more cases are expected in the coming months. Special Agent Steve Adametz, leading the investigation, described how the process involves subpoenaing congregational records—referred to as “productions”—to obtain evidence. This method mirrors the AG’s 2018 investigation into abuse within the Catholic Church. In each case, an agent is assigned to the county and congregation where the alleged abuse occurred. For instance, Butler County is identified as “Production #9.”
The investigation has also uncovered a disturbing pattern within Jehovah’s Witnesses congregations, where abuse allegations, including involving unbaptized children—considered non-members—are often minimized or ignored. With 300 congregations across Pennsylvania, this investigation is expected to take significant time, longer than the investigation into the Catholic Church did, as it seeks to hold both leadership and all members accountable for failing to report abuse to authorities.
In February 2023, a voicemail was received on the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s tip line regarding allegations of child sexual abuse by Shaun P. Sheffer, 45, to his sister K.S., 35, in the years of 1995 to 2000. Shaun is an active member of the Zelienople Congregation in Butler County, PA. The voicemail was from Jessica Sheffer, Brandon Sheffer’s wife, while he answered their call back. The two are former Jehovah’s Witnesses and family members -Brandon, the brother of both Shaun and K.S.
Following the subpoena of congregation records, evidence was obtained that corroborated the allegations In Zelienople Congregation, where they attended. Brandon Sheffer’s call was the missing link the PA AG needed. On July 25, 2023, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Special Operations Unit arrested Shaun Sheffer at his residence. He was charged with 13 counts of child sexual abuse involving a mentally disabled minor under the age of 13. The abuse happened 30 to 75 times in the years of K.S. being seven and twelve years old and Shaun, seventeen to twenty-two, at their family home and pool.
Day One – The Trial of Commonwealth of Pennsylvania v. Shaun Sheffer
While I won’t detail every witness’s testimony, it’s important to emphasize how the prosecution skillfully navigated the delicate task of building their case while educating the jury—many of whom were likely unfamiliar with Jehovah’s Witnesses’ practices—on the organization’s internal dynamics. They carefully addressed how religious factors shaped the context of the case without explicitly linking those factors to general morality, as doing so could risk prejudicing the jury by appealing to emotional or moral biases rather than focusing on the legal arguments. Nonetheless, the influence of these religious nuances on the case was unmistakable from the benches.
On the bitterly cold day of January 13th, 2025, the criminal trial for Shaun Sheffer commenced in downtown Butler at the Court of Common Pleas. The judge was Joseph E. Kubit— Senior Deputy Attorney General Alicia Werner, and the leading officer, Steven Adametz, led the prosecution. On Defense was Benjamin J. Steinberg and Christina Burik. The jury consisted of nine men and seven women, including four alternates. The courtroom was tense, with both former and active Jehovah’s Witnesses on the benches, and the Sheffer family was divided on each side. Leadership decisions within the Jehovah’s Witnesses, often called elders, circuit overseers, C.O.B.E., and the Governing Body, which emphasize control over members’ autonomy, significantly impact family relationships. Additionally, members are often encouraged to suppress emotions and hide personal struggles. This is what happened in various ways in this case, including the guilt and worry of losing your family if you speak up about abuse. The organization’s repression stifles understanding of fundamental topics like sexuality, freedom of speech, independent thought, abuse, and reporting to authorities. For K.S., this environment of control and the cognitive distress it created turned her abuse into a confusing, isolating ordeal, leaving her unable to articulate her experiences. By the time she confided in her brother, Brandon, the damage was already profound—and tragically, the abuse continued despite his efforts to intervene. It is essential to grasp this context before reading the details of this case.
The Introductions from Prosecution and Defense focused on establishing the framework of the allegations and who the victim and perpetrator are. Locations where the abuse took place and the ages of family members at the time to help the jury visualize the family dynamic were also noted. Deputy Attorney General Werner was a panther in the courtroom; her rebuttal was sharp, and her statements were clear and sensible. She was highly aware of how Jehovah’s Witnesses are as well, seeing how she has represented survivors of abuse for this particular investigation before.
During opening arguments, the prosecution made the statement: “Sex and religion—how do they do together? You’ll be surprised.”
And you will be in the following article.
K.S.,36, born on May 4th, 1988, grew up in a Jehovah’s Witness household with her parents, Candace and Tim Sheffer, and her four brothers: Shaun (46), Josh (43), Brandon (41), and Stephen (38). The Sheffer’s attended the Zelienople Congregation, but K.S. was never baptized into the faith. Two of her brothers’ families and parents remain active Jehovah’s Witnesses; the others, including K.S., have since left the faith. Jehovah’s Witnesses on the stand explained how K.S. and other members of the family were ”no longer Jehovah’s Witnesses” years prior due to personal life choices and leaving the organization.
The prosecution’s first witness was Stephen Sheffer, the youngest brother, and an inactive Jehovah’s Witness. Stephen’s wife was on the bench to support her husband and the others in the Sheffer family on the victim’s side. When asked about Shaun and K.S.’s relationship, Stephen remarked, “She was different around Shaun.” When asked how K.S. was growing up, Stephen said, “K.S. was always shy and spoke slowly in her speech; even today, there is some delay. She has always been a kind-hearted person.” He learned about the abuse when he was nine from their brother Brandon: “Nobody talked about K.S. and Shaun afterward. It was like this untouchable thing you wouldn’t dare speak of.” Stephen also recalled a physical altercation when he was thirteen involving his brothers Josh, Brandon, Shaun, and their cousin Drew Jenkins, sparked by the allegations against Shaun. “I saw them arguing in the living room. I remember Shaun yelling ‘Slanderer!’ at Josh; I could tell Josh’s demeanor was highly emotional, and he had elevated speech-” he said tearfully, admitting he was confused and conflicted and didn’t get involved. Shaun moved out shortly after this fight. In the crowd of Jehovah’s Witnesses on the bench, one loudly whispered, calling Stephen a liar, saying that he was faking his testimony; another said they felt the Judge was biased for letting the Prosecution’s questions be overruled because she was a woman.
The next witness, Jessica Laneave, a former wife of one of the brothers who briefly lived with the family around 2004, testified that K.S. came to trust her since, at the time, she or Brandon mainly took care of K.S. in the house. She noticed the tension between K.S. and Shaun, describing it as “an uncomfortable feeling whenever they were together. It felt tense.. But K.S. laughed, talked, and seemed more relaxed around Brandon.” She also observed troubling signs in K.S.’s behavior: “She was homeschooled, supposedly, but I never remember her studying anything. She seemed slower for her age. K.S. was quite shy and seemed to get scared easily. She never acted out to get attention, but you could tell something was wrong. I think she sucked her fingers well into her teenage years, and it worried me about her teeth.” She mentioned to the parents that K.S. Needed to see a dentist, but she doesn’t recall that happening. Jessica also recalled a fight she heard about that had something to do with Shaun and K.S.
After Lunch, the next witness to testify was the victim, K.S. 36, who appeared visibly nervous as she took the stand. Due to her emotional vulnerability stress, and recent recovery from major health issues, it was difficult to be present in the courtroom except for when she took the stand and for the verdict. It was explained to the court that K.S. had faced significant health challenges throughout her life. She was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at the age of nine; she is also on the autism spectrum, has Asperger’s, and has severe PTSD, which she says is from Shaun- diagnosed in her adult years. Additionally, K.S. has endured 10 concussions caused by seizures. She recently had a heart attack and went through quadruple bypass surgery.
Her testimony was deeply emotional as she struggled to recount the trauma inflicted by Shaun, emphasizing the impact it had on her life, repeating what she could comprehend, saying, “He abused me by raping me.” She explained that Shaun would put her on the bed and rape her, covering her mouth so no one would hear, and he would make her touch him as he masturbated in the basement bathroom. When the defense asked why she wouldn’t tell her family sooner, she said, “Shaun scared me.” Further questioning on how he would get away with it in such a crowded house, K.S. explained, “He would put a curtain rod across the door so no one could enter.” The abuse happened 30 to 75 times, she said, mainly in Shaun’s room, once in her parent’s bedroom, the basement bathroom, and the pool- even at times while others were inside the house.
The defense attempted to challenge K.S. ‘s testimony when she was seven and went to her brother Brandon, who was twelve at the time -about the abuse, asking, “Who first told you that Shaun sexually abused you?” K.S. responded that it was Brandon. Not understanding the defense’s question, Prosecution helped her clarify. K.S. didn’t understand what sex was at the time, and she told Brandon, “Sometimes Shaun brings me into the room, and he wants to kiss and stuff.” After Brandon questioned K.S. further about what she meant, he walked away, knowing that K.S. was being molested. The defense again tried suggesting that Brandon had coerced K.S. on what to say, but K.S. firmly said “no.” When their mother, Candy, learned of the abuse from Brandon, she asked K.S. to draw Shaun’s penis, Since K.S. was seven and shouldn’t have known what male body parts looked like at the time, but she did. K.S. explained, “I told her that he was touching me sexually.” Candy Sheffer did not come to the stand but was present a few days throughout the week of the trial K.S. also remembers a few instances where she heard pounding on the door when Shaun was raping her; she came to find out it was Brandon, and at one time, when the abuse was occurring in her parent’s bedroom, Shaun yelled, “Go away.” at the door. Brandon did not go away, and Shaun had stopped and left her alone. K.S. said that the abuse eventually stopped because “I told Shaun that my period was starting.”
After the lunch break, the prosecution called Steven Chappel, a current elder from the Zelienople congregation, to the stand. Chappel confirmed that Shaun is a congregation member and acknowledged that he had heard about the allegations against him, not directly from K.S. but from another Jehovah’s Witness – though he does not recall who. In 2016, Shaun approached Chappel and another elder, Chad Smith, regarding the allegations. Chappel said Shaun was trying to be ‘open and honest.’ “Shaun was concerned we may hear the rumors from others, but he did not confess they were true.” The elders then contacted the legal department in Jehovah’s Witnesses Headquarters, New York, to seek guidance about the allegations- the victim’s name has been redacted since. A letter was given to Chappel on the stand, and he confirmed that it was the response letter they received back from Headquarters. As seen in the document, ‘Defendants Exhibit 2’- states that Headquarters was quick to dismiss the allegations due to their not being two witnesses to the abuse. Chappel told the jury, “Of course, I didn’t approach K.S. After we were instructed not to.” He also noted that K.S. was not an active Jehovah’s Witness then, which may have influenced why no one questioned her. The document also shows there were three documents containing the allegations against Shaun.
Day Two – The Trial of Commonwealth of Pennsylvania v. Shaun Sheffer
On day two of the trial, Brandon Sheffer, 41, one of K.S.’s supportive brothers and the one who had been in contact with the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s tip line, took the stand. Jessica Sheffer, another loving supporter of K.S., was watching from the benches. Brandon described the complex and divided household they grew up in. Their mother struggled with frequent hospitalizations due to health complications. She developed an addiction to opiates and alcohol while their father was often absent, working full-time in his HVAC business. Brandon has helped his parents and K.S. financially for most of his adult life, for no one in the family had health insurance growing up, causing financial strain. All the children were pulled from public school and homeschooled when they were kids, K.S. being in kindergarten when this occurred. There was little to no education for K.S. Brandon described the home environment as chaotic. “It was like Lord of the Flies at home,” with everyone living independently and fending for themselves. “K.S. was non-verbal until she was about 4 or 5. It was kind of like a baby babble through those years. Most of the time, she was very, very quiet. So, everyone spoke for her.” Regarding first hearing about the abuse, Brandon recollected a similar occurrence to K.S.’s testimony on how she approached him, both confused about what she was trying to explain at the time. Upon further questioning her, he walked away, terrified that his sister had been molested. “I was shocked and felt completely ignorant.” He told the oldest brother, Josh, and reluctantly, the youngest, Stephen, shortly after. “After Josh and I told our mother, we knew Shaun and K.S. were not allowed to be around each other. It was a hushed but known rule in the family. My mother told me that she did in fact catch Shaun and K.S. behind a closed door one time, though I’m not sure of the details.” However, the family did not converse about it, nor was there actual acknowledgment of what happened. Yet, this is when Brandon became more aware and kept an eye on Shaun, and K.S. Brandon brings up instances where he attempted to picket the door, once to his parent’s bedroom when he learned Shaun and K.S. was in there with the door locked. Before Brandon could unlock the door, Shaun swung it open and angrily brushed past him. “I love my sister; I was trying to be a good brother in the only ways I knew how.” The defense asked Brandon to explain the process of communicating with Agent Adametz after their initial call about K.S.’s abuse in 2023, then quoted a statement he told Adametz on the phone -that he viewed Shaun as narcissistic, manipulative, and lacking a conscience. Attempting to paint the picture that Brandon called the tip-line and fabricated the entire story with K.S., it was clear to the prosecution that Shaun was a bully to all the brothers, and after speaking with the family outside of court, Brandon said that Shaun did terrible things to taunt his siblings. Still, the defense would not allow him to elaborate further on the stand.
The Fight
Brandon recalled the same fight that Stephen Sheffer did in his testimony. “At the time, Josh was twenty, I was seventeen, Shaun was twenty-two, and K.S. was twelve. It started in our dad’s HVAC shop; I believe it ended when we got home.” Brandon couldn’t recall what words started the fight between Shaun and Josh, but he remembered Shaun repeatedly yelling, “Slanderer!” after being upset by something Josh said. The altercation involved being knocked back into book cases, yelling and shoving, and ended when Josh walked away, and the boys noticed others standing outside the shop who heard the ruckus. Brandon admitted he never told their father about the abuse, fearing his violent temper and worrying he might murder Shaun. He described their father as quiet but prone to outbursts.
After lunch, licensed psychologist Veronique Valliere testified as a “blind expert,” meaning she was there to answer questions about mental health and victim response to abuse, not case facts. She did not know about the crime or the parties involved. Valliere explained that victims may not disclose immediately or fully, especially if the abuser is close to them, and especially ones with cognitive disabilities or autism who may struggle with understanding or communicating abuse. She highlighted that shame, trauma, and cultural factors can further complicate disclosure. Trauma affects each victim differently, and perpetrators often manipulate their victims to appear likable, making it difficult for others to recognize abuse. She stated clearly, “Children can NEVER consent. That’s on the adult.” Defense tried to probe specific answers about coercion and fabrication on how an abuser could plan with a mentally disabled person, without being able to explain specifics themselves. Valliere seemed understandably confused, telling the defense multiple times that she could not answer precisely with such vague questions. She emphasized that false allegations are rare and clarified that most abusers maintain a “normal” public life, which further complicates the victim’s experience. The Psychologist then went into Piecemeal disclosure. This is the process where a victim of abuse reveals information in small, often fragmented portions over time rather than in a complete, immediate account. This typically happens due to fear, shame, or the victim’s emotional or cognitive state. This pattern is typical, especially in cases of childhood trauma, where the victim may not initially understand what happened or might not be ready to talk about it in full due to fear of consequences, including retaliation or disbelief.
“Culture and religion impact all things. If a religion dictates a close-knit family, it’s hard to separate what you should and shouldn’t say out of fear, and there may be nowhere for the victim to feel safe. You can’t tell by one behavior if someone has been abused. It’s many factors.“ She then had to explain what being antisocial means since the defense had misdescribed the term while questioning her. “Being anti-social doesn’t mean you’re just an awkward or quiet person. It clinically means the person does not connect with the public, disregards other people’s rights, detests being around people, and takes what they want.”
Special Agent Adametz, who has been in law enforcement for twenty-seven years, leads the PA AG investigation. He described the process of communicating with K.S., noting that she requested Brandon’s involvement in some calls for support, but Brandon did not coach her through the calls. Brandon helped K.S. by keeping her comfortable with speaking about the abuse. Without his help, this case would not have happened. Adametz recounted the coordinated arrest of Shaun Sheffer on July 26th, 2023, involving an OP of 14 officers. He explained that precautions were taken due to uncertainty about potential violence, weapons, or other victims inside the home. “We need to make sure people are Safe. We don’t know what’s in the house.” A brief search of the premises ensured safety before Sheffer was taken to a local police station, where Adametz remembered he interviewed Shaun for 2 hours and 9 minutes. Adametz said that he got the impression when reading the allegations to Shaun Sheffer that “It wasn’t the first time he had heard about them.” The defense highlighted a heated phone call between Adametz and Sheffer’s father, Tim, alleging that Adametz had threatened Tim not to contact K.S. They also referenced an in-person confrontation where Adametz expressed concern about Tim pressuring K.S.. Adametz testified that Tim harbored personal animosity toward him, including demanding that he leave his property, among other remarks.
Day 3 The Trial of Commonwealth of Pennsylvania vs. Shaun Sheffer
On the third day of the trial, Josh Sheffer, 44, took the stand. Currently serving as an elder and Coordinator of the Body of Elders (C.O.B.E.) in a Jehovah’s Witness congregation in Florida, Josh testified about his knowledge of the case. He stated that Shaun had a hobby of racing motorcycles and often brought K.S. along, even buying her a dirt bike and gear. “They had a completely normal relationship,” he said.
Josh testified that he first learned of the alleged abuse from Brandon, who told him in the basement hallway—on the same day Stephen was informed—that Shaun had been molesting K.S. by performing anal acts while avoiding vaginal intercourse. Josh said he does not recall going to their mother with Brandon. Throughout his testimony, he frequently responded with “I do not recall” when asked about specific dates, conversations, or whether Brandon later raised additional concerns about K.S. He also stated that K.S. never personally told him about the alleged abuse.
When asked about Shaun’s character as a teenager, Josh remarked, “I wouldn’t say he’s the kindest guy, but he’s not the worst kind of guy.” Regarding his brother Brandon, Josh commented, “I love my brother, but he always had to be right.” He described K.S. as sweet but prone to exaggeration, noting her struggles with speech, listening, and general comprehension. However, he denied knowing whether she had any diagnosed mental illness.
When asked why he didn’t confront K.S. about the alleged abuse, Josh replied, “I wouldn’t have believed her.”
The Fight
The fight between the Sheffer brothers was a focus of both defense and prosecution. When asked who started it, Josh claimed it began over using the computer, the only one with internet access in their dad’s HVAC shop. Shaun refused to give up the computer. The remarks back and forth became more heated, and it escalated to prompt Josh to say, “At least I don’t molest my sister.” Josh testified minutes later that Shaun was upset that his girlfriend, “M,” and Josh’s then-girlfriend, “C,” had learned of the allegations involving K.S., which was why Shaun became upset, leading to the shoving.
Tim Sheffer, the father of all the children and an active Jehovah’s Witness, stated that he is not taking sides and loves everyone in his family. He admitted that his wife, Candy, told him about the allegations when K.S. was a teenager, and he was aware of rumors circulating in the congregation. However, he never asked K.S. directly about the allegations and only learned details of the accusations through the news when Shaun was charged in 2023. After Shaun’s arrest, K.S. And her wife Jacque visited Tim and Candy to explain the situation at their home. During this visit, Candy took K.S. to a closed room and called Shaun, attempting to coerce K.S. into dropping the charges, something Tim claimed he did not know about. K.S. left the house, visibly upset. The next day, Special Agent Adametz visited Tim’s HVAC shop where he was working, leading to a heated exchange. Agreeing with prosecution, Tim said he wouldn’t have called authorities because he could handle family matters himself. “I can handle family matters myself; I mean look at my family now.” He told Adametz to leave his property that day. “Sorry to be honest but I wanted to put him in a hammer lock.” With Adametz in front of him in the courtroom, Tim also stated, “I don’t like the man.” Tim said he has always loved and helped K.S., though he described her as “impressionable” and prone to “bad associations.” He recalled Shaun and K.S.’s relationship as “normal” and claimed he did not recall any need to separate them due to accusations. However, he noted that in recent years, K.S. clearly disliked visiting Shaun’s home. At this point, Tim became emotional and implied that this had ruined the family dynamic.
All the Witnesses on the stand stated below are active Jehovah’s Witnesses who said they were lifelong friends of Shaun. Their testimonies were all very alike. They each described Shaun as a good person, calm, and level-headed. While all but one admitted hearing about K.S.’s accusations of abuse, and many of them lived in the same area as K.S., none had asked further questions about it.
Derek Jinkens, who claimed to be one of K.S.’s best friends growing up but no longer has a close relationship with her, stated, “K.S. can be very influenced. She liked attention.” However, when asked if she had a reputation for dishonesty, he replied, “No, she wasn’t dishonest.”
Michael Kohl, an elder in the Zelienople congregation and Shaun’s best friend, characterized K.S. differently. He said, “She is known not to be truthful. She has a reputation for manipulating to get what she wants.” After lunch break, he was brought back to the stand for Defense to ask one question: “Is Brandon a truthful person?” Kohl replied, “No, he is not a truthful person.”
Zachary Tokus, who was once Brandon’s best friend but is no longer close to him, reluctantly agreed with Prosecution that the fallout of their friendship was due to Brandon leaving the Jehovah’s Witness faith.
Angie Croston described K.S. as a “needy girl and wanted attention” and that she saw no cause for concern regarding the allegations she heard throughout the years.
When Setta Labach was questioned on why she too, did not approach K.S. about the allegations everyone was hearing, with a grin, she stated, “I don’t think any girl would put herself in a place where she wouldn’t be comfortable.” and mentioned that she didn’t find K.S. believable.
Notably, none of the defense witnesses made any effort to speak to K.S. about the abuse, comfort her, or inquire about her well-being. Each witness testified to being close friends with Shaun or Brandon growing up but admitted they were not close with K.S., even though they frequently saw her around the house.
Day 4 The Trial of Commonwealth of Pennsylvania vs. Shaun Sheffer
On day four, the defense presented its final witnesses. Russell Cherry, a former coworker of Shaun at Gibsonia Cycle during the years of the alleged abuse, testified that Shaun worked long hours and said he never heard any allegations involving K.S.
Next was Nikki Phillips, who studied the Bible with K.S. in 2016 and learned about the abuse directly from her. Nikki said she told K.S. she would report it to the Zelienople congregation elders but couldn’t recall which ones she spoke to. Her brother, Chad Smith, an elder involved in contacting headquarters with Chappell, was also aware of the allegations, though Nikki wasn’t sure if he was the one she had spoken to.
Shaun Sheffer’s wife, Megan, also an active Jehovah’s Witness took the stand next. Married to Shaun since 2003, she testified that she remembered K.S. being around the house but admitted they were not particularly close. Megan described K.S. in her adult years as “quiet but sneaky,” adding that she was “easily manipulated and manipulative in return.” When asked about her relationship with Brandon and Jessica, Megan said, “They left the Kingdom Hall years ago.” She learned of their decision through another Jehovah’s Witness, who received a message from Jessica Sheffer, her sister-in-law, saying, “I love you, but I’m leaving.” Megan admitted that after hearing this, she and Shaun did some digging into Brandon and Jessica’s social media, which she found distasteful toward Jehovah’s Witnesses. Megan felt the need to correct precautions use of the word “Community” about the Jehovah’s Witness Organization when asked why they do not associate with K.S., Brandon, or Jessica: “We are not a community, we are more like a spiritual family.” Which hinted at the fact that they were no longer part of their “spiritual family.” Much of Megan’s testimony centered on Shaun’s arrest in July 2023. Video footage from their Ring home security camera was shown in the courtroom. It showed officers surrounding their house, entering after loud pounding on the door and identifying themselves. Megan described the arrest as harsh and upsetting for their teenage daughters to witness, adding, “You can tell that law enforcement didn’t care at all-” about how the arrest affected them. Regarding the allegations of abuse, Megan said she heard rumors around the congregation in 2016, and she recalled telling Candy Sheffer, Shaun, and K.S.’s mother, “I don’t want anyone making these allegations around my daughters.” She testified that she had no reason to believe the claims were valid. When questioned about why she never approached K.S. about the allegations, Megan pulled a face, prompting the prosecution to ask, “Why the face?” Megan replied, “K.S. makes up a lot of stories.”
End Of Witnesses, Defense -Closing arguments by Defense attorney Steinberg
The defense rested its case, and it was time for closing arguments. Defense attorney Steinberg approached a podium recently placed in front of the jury, carrying a glass of water and a small tincture filled with black liquid. Facing the jury, he began:
“This case is not about sympathizing with the victim. It’s been said that K.S. is known to be untruthful. I’m sure her testimony pulled at your heartstrings, but these are only allegations. Your job is to decide whether the Commonwealth has shown enough *proof.* Are there any eyewitnesses? Is there any evidence? Let’s maintain a laser focus on this investigation.” He emphasized that the case was prompted by records from the Kingdom Hall stating there were allegations against Shaun but without naming specifics. “Yes, there are divisions on religious matters, but this is not about religion or whether someone is an ex- or active Jehovah’s Witness,” Steinberg argued that the case began with Brandon Sheffer, who called the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s tip-line in February 2023 after hearing about the investigation. “There are so many inconsistencies in this case. You must consider whether there is any reasonable doubt. If you have even *one thought*, *one doubt* that Shaun did not do this, then you must find him not guilty.” He challenged K.S.’s testimony, describing the alleged rape as physically implausible given the small, crowded house. Steinberg added drops of black liquid to the glass of water to drive his point home.
“Who has been involved in this entire process? Brandon. Reasonable doubt” He added a drop.
“Who told K.S. about what Shaun allegedly did to her? Brandon. Reasonable doubt.” Another drop.
“Who told the brothers, the mother, and the Pennsylvania Attorney General about the alleged abuse? Brandon. Reasonable doubt.” A final drop. He stirred the water until it turned completely black, then placed the glass on the wooden surface before the jury. “This water, this case, is full of reasonable doubts. If there is any reasonable doubt, you must acquit.”
Prosecution -Closing Arguments by Deputy Attorney General Werner
Prosecutor Alicia Werner went straight to the podium and moved it aside so she could face the jury closer. “I thought he would drink from that glass, didn’t you? But I’m not here for theatrics,” she began, earning a small chuckle from the jury. Then, holding up an old family photo of the Sheffer’s, she continued, “This looks like a normal, happy family, doesn’t it? You wouldn’t be able to tell that this family has secrets. That Candace, the mother, struggled with addiction. That Tim Sheffer was always working, never home with his family. And this girl, K.S. -was being molested.”
“You don’t see trauma in this photo. At the time, the only people who knew the trauma K.S. was dealing with being raped were herself—and Shaun. Abusers are experts at finding opportunities.” Werner paused, her voice steady “Some people in this family didn’t want to know. Others knew but didn’t want to talk about it. Because if you don’t talk about it, it didn’t happen, right? K.S. was silenced—every time she tried to tell someone, nothing happened. So, what was she supposed to do? As a child with autism and living with disabilities that made her even more susceptible to abuse.. could she understand what was happening, let alone make it up? This case is about K.S. as a child. That little girl didn’t have the words or the power to stop what was happening. Now the defense wants you to focus on K.S. as an adult, calling her a liar, a manipulator…Yet many on the stand said she was a very kind-hearted girl.. but that something was off. And when she finally disclosed her abuse to her brother Brandon, she wasn’t coached. Nobody held her hand. Her story was raw, unpolished, and consistent with what we know about child victims of sexual abuse.
Shaun Sheffer took advantage of his sister’s innocence, trust, and vulnerability. He isolated her, held her down, and made her feel small and incapable of fighting back. Even her brother Josh Sheffer blurted it out, “At least I don’t molest my sister,” during a fight because it was on his mind. They all knew. Of course, Tim Sheffer, their father, was crying here on the stand.. because he hid a life secret about his daughter and son. It has caused divisions in his family. You can’t blame him for crying on the stand the same as you can’t blame Megan Sheffer, Shaun’s wife, for having hatred towards the police. For crying here about how traumatizing it was for her husband’s arrest.. but we are being distracted. This case is not about a fight or an arrest… It’s about K.S., a child who endured years of abuse in her own home—a place that should have been safe.
Over 5 years, we have to ask a question: was it once or more than once? The charges are based on one time. Couldn’t she have just fabricated that it happened one time? Wouldn’t that have been easier? We could have charged Shaun 50 times, but it doesn’t matter. If you believe Shaun molested his sister one time, that’s all it takes—one time. Don’t let the Defense distract you from how K.S. is as an adult. Who would compel her to draw a graphic image to her mother or recount incidents in painful detail? Nobody. Brandon tried to tell his family and community, but everyone was so, so quiet. Are we going to be angry at Brandon for speaking up? Are we pointing a finger at him? What is he getting out of this? It didn’t happen just one time. These are K.S. truths—disclosures that took years to surface in a family and community unwilling to address them. A child cannot consent; that should be clear. Every single person on that stand knew of K.S. and was in the house with her many times, yet not one, but Brandon ever asked her if she was okay or what was going on. K.S.’s disability does not diminish her credibility; it strengthens it. She could not fabricate such a story as a child. And even now, years later, her testimony remains consistent about what happened. As the law recognizes, delayed disclosures in abuse cases are common, and physical evidence is rare. What matters is whether you believe K.S.
The judge will now provide instructions on the charges formally brought against Shaun Sheffer. It has always been clear that Shaun was the focus of this case, and even the defendant himself admitted during his interview that K.S. never accused any other brother of wrongdoing. Special Agent Adametz did not harass or target the family or K.S. but handled this case with the utmost seriousness, as is standard practice in such investigations. The charges I read below are truths that have happened to K.S., and I am asking the jury to agree with charging him on them all.”
“If you believe K.S.— All it takes is just one time of abuse for Shaun Sheffer to be guilty. Just one. Protecting abusers because the truth is difficult to confront only perpetuates harm. K.S. deserves justice. Let her courage in coming forward not be met with silence or doubt. It is time to hold Shaun Sheffer accountable.” Werner then reads out the charges, explaining what they entail.
Charges Against Defendant, Shaun Sheffer
Count 1: Rape by Forcible Compulsion
To find the defendant guilty of this charge, the jury must determine that Shaun Sheffer had sexual intercourse with K.S. through the use of force. Force can be physical, such as holding her down, or psychological, such as creating a threat of harm.
The concept of “forcible compulsion” also takes into account the mental and emotional state of the victim. K.S., as the prosecution presented, had a mental disability (Autism and Asperger’s Syndrome), which may have made her unable to resist or fully understand the situation. If you believe the prosecution has proven this element, then the defendant is guilty.
Count 2: Rape of a Person with a Mental Disability
The prosecution argues that K.S.’s developmental conditions, described as Autism and Asperger’s Syndrome, rendered her incapable of understanding or consenting to sexual acts. Witnesses testified about her challenges with communication and social interactions, as well as her status as a child with special needs. No expert testimony is required to establish her disability if the evidence presented satisfies you that her condition rendered her incapable of giving consent.
Count 3: Rape of a Child Under the Age of 13
If the jury finds that the defendant engaged in sexual intercourse with K.S. when she was under 13 years old, the defendant is guilty.
Counts 4, 5, and 6: Indecent Assault
These charges involve sexual acts or touching of the victim’s body without consent.
In this case, consent is not an issue, as K.S. was underage and legally unable to provide consent.
Indecent assault involves any sexual contact between the defendant’s body and the sexual parts of the victim’s body, as defined by the law.
Count 7: Corruption of Minors
This charge alleges that the defendant, being over the age of 18, corrupted the morals of K.S., who was a minor.
If the jury finds that the defendant committed acts of rape or other sexual misconduct while K.S. was a minor, the defendant is guilty of this charge.
Day 5 The Trial of Commonwealth of Pennsylvania vs. Shaun Sheffer- The Verdict
As closing arguments stretched into the evening, the jury delayed deliberations until the following day. By the morning of January 17th, 2025, tension hung heavy in the air. Supporters from both sides moved in and out of the only café with food nearby, their conversations clipped, glances sharp as they awaited a verdict. Between the district attorney’s office and the defense’s designated room, members of the Sheffer family sat in uneasy worry through the afternoon.
At 1:11 P.M., the tipstaff swung open the courtroom doors, saying to the advocates sitting in the hallway, “The jury has reached a verdict.”
In the courtroom, the divide was clear. Jehovah’s Witnesses, loyal to Shaun Sheffer, clustered together on the right side, murmuring among themselves and casting wary looks across the aisle. Sitting alongside her family to the left, K.S.’s supporters exchanged comforting glances and whispered reassurances, bracing themselves for the outcome. “Don’t be scared, no matter what happens.” Brandon Sheffer comfortingly whispered next to K.S. along with her wife Jacque, there with her every step of the way. When the verdict was read, the room erupted.
“Shaun Sheffer is guilty-” reading them out on all seven charges.
Cries and gasps filled the courtroom, punctuated by signs of anger and murmurs that rippled through the room. On one side, the victim and her family sat stunned yet relieved before being hurriedly escorted out by police officers. To avoid confrontation, they were ushered through a separate exit in the courthouse.
Jehovah’s Witnesses in attendance, many of whom had testified in Shaun’s defense, were devastated. Their whispered outrage grew louder as they confronted law enforcement who stood with plain faces, “Thank you for doing your job wrong,” one stated. “Are you happy with yourselves?” Another declared, “They got the wrong guy,” “This is what Satan’s System does.” “They didn’t even have any evidence.” among other remarks were said. When reporters approached for comments, the group snapped back, rejecting all inquiries. “Go away, we don’t want you here, we don’t want to talk to you.” shooing them away.
Sheffer’s sentencing will be announced in March
Personal Statements from Brandon and Jessica Sheffer
“I’m still reeling from this experience. My sister’s accusations have been consistent since childhood, but we were always told to keep silent and “leave it in Jehovah’s hands.” Anytime it resurfaced, the same approach was enforced. If we questioned it, we were accused of not trusting Jehovah. This took far too long to come to light. I’m deeply disappointed in my family for siding with Shaun. Several lied on the stand, despite knowing the truth, and supported him even as his defense strategy was to implicate me as the perpetrator and attack my character. It’s devastating and heartbreaking. My aunts, cousins, and former friends sat behind Shaun with unwavering support, accepting his claim that I fabricated a scheme at age 12 to cover up my own alleged actions. It’s sickening. I never imagined my family would condone this, but they justify it because I’m now an “apostate.”
Some who supported him privately know the accusations have been consistent for decades and likely true. They made it vague for their own comfort, avoiding the responsibility of facing their failures. It’s cowardly and deeply disappointing.
I’m grateful to the Attorney General’s office, especially Steve Adametz and Alicia Warner, for their dedication, and to Missy, the victim advocate, for her support during this process.
I hope the AG’s office continues seeking justice for victims left behind by the Jehovah’s Witnesses. Pennsylvania is leading the way in exposing the Watchtower’s concealed crimes, and I applaud their efforts.”
“I am so proud of how strong K.S. has been in confronting her childhood sexual abuse. She is my hero for standing up to her perpetrator, and I am grateful to have her as my sister. She embodies the true definition of bravery and courage. I am deeply saddened, though not surprised, that our Jehovah’s Witness family—including a C.O.B.E. elder, —sided with the abuser and continued to blame K.S. during the trial. It was clear to me that the Jehovah’s Witnesses who testified on behalf of the abuser were not truthful. This behavior reflects the organization’s culture, even as they claim to worship a God who hates liars. As a human being, it was painful to witness people once considered family become involved in this, causing emotional and spiritual harm. Ultimately, we all carry our burdens, and everyone reaps what they sow.
I want to thank Prosecutor Alicia Werner, Special Agent Adametz, and the other law enforcement professionals involved in this case. They believed in us as CSA victims and worked tirelessly toward justice. Their grace, professionalism, and dedication have renewed my hope and strengthened my resolve to keep fighting the good fight.”
From Miss Usato:
This article is not meant to direct hate toward Jehovah’s Witnesses or to vilify those who are devout to their faith. We understand and empathize with the shock that Megan Sheffer feels about her husband’s sentencing, recognizing the personal grief and anguish that comes with such a situation. The intention here is not to persecute individuals who are committed to their beliefs but rather to shed light on the harmful practices within the organization that have allowed child sexual abuse to be covered up and its victims silenced. In this case, family members and friends who grew up alongside K.S. and Shaun were divided, primarily based on their affiliation with Jehovah’s Witnesses. It is well-known that members of the Jehovah’s Witnesses community often place greater trust in theocratic laws and rules over secular law enforcement, which contributed to the division. This piece aims to address the systemic issues of repression and the failure to protect the vulnerable, which have caused immeasurable harm. The focus is on urging change within the organization to ensure accountability, transparency, and the safety of all its members, especially those who, like K.S., have suffered in silence. Our goal is not to attack the faith itself but to advocate for a future where such harmful practices are eradicated and protecting individuals, especially children, is prioritized above all.
Brandon’s unwavering love for his sister, K.S., and his determination to seek justice despite the barriers of religious loyalty and family pressures is a testament to his extraordinary courage and compassion. He and his wife supported her, believed in her, and fought fiercely for her dignity when others chose to look away. I am thankful for the friendship and connection I have with the Sheffer family that invited me into fully understanding the difficult dynamics and emotional turmoil these cases bring, that so many of us abuse survivors endure. Brandon’s bravery reminds us of the power of standing up against injustice, even when challenging deeply religiously ingrained systems. AvoidJW extends our sincere gratitude to Deputy Attorney General Alicia Werner, Special Agent Adametz, Maddy Rubin with the Post Gazette, JwChildAbuse, and the team behind the PA AG investigation for their unwavering dedication and tireless efforts in giving these abuse victims a voice. We hope to see more of these cases where victims of abuse are given the proper care and justice. Ultimately, we are reminded that everyone needs a Brandon Sheffer—someone who stands up for what’s right, regardless of the religion, or family ties that attempts to silence us.
Other media Coverage on Shaun Sheffer:
JWChildAbuse: VERDICT Active Jehovah’s Witness found guilty on 7 counts of Child Sexual Abuse
CBSnews: Jehovah’s Witness convicted of sexually assaulting child
ABC27News: Member of Jehovah’s Witness convicted in statewide investigation
ButlerEagle: Jury finds Harmony man guilty for assulting a young girl
Aiding Transparency to Watchtowers teachings. If you have additional information about this topic or would like to reach the author- Please email [email protected]