Case against youth pastor and church over molestation allegations set for conference

A mother's suit against a youth pastor and a Granite City church over her son's alleged molestation three years ago is set for case management.

The conference will be held April 28 at 9:30 a.m.

Plaintiff Jane Doe, on behalf of her minor son, John Doe, is suing Anthony Muzzarelli and Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Granite City on claims of misconduct, negligence and intentional tort.

She claims that Muzzarelli, a youth pastor, molested her son when the boy slept over at Muzzarelli's home in February 2006.

Muzzarelli pled guilty in July 2006 to two counts of aggravated criminial sexual assault. He was sentenced to two years probation by Madison County Circuit Judge Charles Romani and was required to register as a sex offender.

According to the complaint, Muzzarelli fondled Jane Doe's son after he had been invited to the youth pastor's home as part of Muzzarelli's ministry. She claims Mt. Zion is liable because Muzzarelli was acting as a church employee when the incident happened.

Mt. Zion denies that it is liable for Muzzarelli's actions because he was not acting in his scope as a church employee when the abuse occurred.

Jane Doe's suit seeks damages of at least $50,000 and costs.

Madison County Circuit Judge David Hylla presides.

The Does are represented by John Hustava of Collinsville.

There is no attorney listed for Muzzarelli.

Mt. Zion is represented by James Craney.

The case is Madison case number 08-L-488.