Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa Settles Lawsuit Over Former Pastor's Alleged Abuse

Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa, a prominent megachurch in Santa Ana, California, has reached a $12 million settlement with a former staff member who accused a former pastor and wrestling coach, Jacob Harman, of sexual and physical assault. The lawsuit, filed in June 2024, alleged that Harman committed multiple acts of sexual battery, rape, and physical violence against the woman between 2016 and 2017 while both were associated with the church.

The plaintiff’s legal team stated that the settlement was reached shortly before a scheduled trial in September. The lawsuit accused the church of negligence, claiming leadership failed to protect the woman from Harman, whom the filing described as a known predator. The allegations included claims of vicarious liability, intentional infliction of emotional distress, and negligent supervision. Attorneys for the plaintiff expressed hope that the outcome would encourage other victims to seek accountability and demonstrate that institutions can be held responsible for the actions of their employees.