James Fortune Responds To Child Abuse Lawsuit

Monday reports surfaced of a $5 million dollar lawsuit against James Fortune for abusing his stepson back in 2001. The lawsuit was filed by the child’s father and ex-husband of Fortune’s wife Cheryl seeking damages for continued plastic surgery expenses for their son who is now 15 years old.

Fortune sent out the following statement Tuesday in response to this lawsuit:

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I recently became aware of a civil suit pending against my wife, Cheryl Fortune and I, for an incident that occurred in 2001 involving my stepson. There was a criminal investigation and all matters were resolved in 2003. Since that time, my family and I, including my stepson, have continued with family traditions and always have a loving family environment. We are shocked by this lawsuit but understand people are free to use the court system to pursue claims, whether they contain merit or baseless matters. We are confident through this process, if it proceeds to a judge or jury, the ultimate decision maker will render a decision that is favorable to the circumstances and timing surrounding this situation. We believe in our American justice system and know it will work for us as it has for millions of other Americans.

I love all my children, including my stepson, and I ask for your prayers as we deal with this matter privately. Thank you for your continued support for me, my family, and ministry.

This lawsuit comes a month after Fortune was nominated for Best Gospel Artist for the 2012 BET Awards airing Sunday. For more information on this story click here.

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