DCF closes latest investigation into abuse at Camp Tracey
DCF closes latest investigation into abuse at Camp Tracey
POSTED 09/17/08 - Allegations of child abuse at Camp Tracey have plagued the church-run camp since its beginnings. Six lawsuits citing repeated sexual and physical abuse and more than a dozen investigations by the Florida Department Of Children and Families have occurred in the past 20 years.
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Camp Tracey Children’s Home is a live-in facility for troubled youth located in northern Baker County. It was started in 1982 by Rev. Wilford McCormick under the auspices of Harvest Baptist Church in Jacksonville.
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Abuse was verified in three cases and found to be likely true in four others according to DCF records.
The latest investigation by the DCF has been closed says Northeast Region Communications Manager John Harrell.
DCF has been looking into two separate complaints of abuse by camp staff member John Wilson who was arrested in July when the Baker County Sheriff’s Office was called to the camp for another investigation into sex activity between a group of boys at the camp.
During the sex investigation, investigators with the Baker County Sheriff’s Office uncovered possible abuse by Wilson when young students told of being choked and thrown by the 46-year-old Wilson.
The two month investigation by DCF included numerous interviews with the alleged victims,
witnesses and camp staff. Ultimately, one case was dropped for lack of any evidence. Some evidence of abuse was found in the second case, but not enough to pursue with further charges.
The State Attorney's office says they are still investigating and charges are still pending against Wilson at this time.
Camp Tracey Children’s Home is a live-in facility for troubled youth located in northern Baker County. It was started in 1982 by Rev. Wilford McCormick under the auspices of Harvest Baptist Church in Jacksonville.
