A Cardiff University employee has been accused in an American civil lawsuit of grooming and abusing a child. Joel Collier, the university’s impact officer, is allegedly involved in the abuse of a girl from the age of 14. The 35-year-old Collier joined the university in June 2023, with prior work experience in the US. The impact officer role paid up to £43,155 annually, focusing on working with academics to enhance the impact of their research. A recent lawsuit in Kentucky claims that Collier had inappropriate interactions with a 23-year-old woman he met at a Salvation Army music camp in 2017. The lawsuit suggests that the Salvation Army had previously fired Collier in 2014 over inappropriate texts with a minor and then rehired him in 2015, leading to further abuse.
The claimant in the lawsuit states that Collier sexually victimised her from the age of 14, including sending explicit messages and coercing her into intimate acts. It is alleged that Collier engaged in non-consensual intercourse and other inappropriate acts as the victim turned 18. The lawsuit details disturbing incidents where Collier reportedly sent unsolicited explicit footage and initiated sexual contact. These actions culminated in a suicide attempt by the claimant in December 2020. The lawsuit further accuses Collier of normalising paedophilic behaviour and exposing the victim to child pornography.
Following the lawsuit, Cardiff University issued a statement acknowledging the allegations and stating that they are investigating the matter. Despite being approached for comment, Collier has not responded directly. In response to the allegations, Mr Collier has been removed from his position as the principal baritone of the Cory Band, a prominent brass band based in Treorchy. The band terminated Collier’s membership, citing the seriousness of the allegations against him.
The claimant is seeking damages from the Salvation Army for negligence in hiring and failing to protect children. Boz Tchividjian, the claimant’s lawyer, expressed the belief that proper adherence to policies by the Salvation Army could have prevented the abuse. The lawsuit’s revelations have prompted discussions around child safeguarding measures and the importance of stringent background checks in hiring processes.
As the investigation unfolds, the case has brought attention to the need for institutions to prioritise child protection and thoroughly vet employees working with vulnerable individuals. The impact of such allegations extends beyond the individuals involved, highlighting the broader significance of safeguarding measures in educational and charitable organisations. Cardiff University’s response underscores the gravity of the situation, indicating a commitment to addressing the allegations with due diligence and care. The case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of child abuse and the imperative of robust safeguarding procedures to prevent such atrocities.