Settlement in Scouts case
A settlement has been reached in the case of Patricia Evasew, who says her son committed suicide after being molested by his Scoutmaster.
In 2013, Evasew filed suit against the Boy Scouts of America and a local affiliate, the BSA Chester County Council, seeking more than $50,000 in damages.
Her son, Thomas, committed suicide in 2012, allegedly in the aftermarth of being sexually molested by Charles “Chris” Morris, a former Scoutmaster at the BSA Chester County Council.
Morris denies the allegations.
Deron Smith, director of communications for the Boy Scouts of America, said the case has settled, but details were unavailable.
“The Boy Scouts of America is pleased that this matter has been resolved and that we reached a settlement,” Smith said. “While we can’t comment on the specifics related to this agreement, we appreciate the court’s time in the review of this matter.”
Attorneys for Evasew had no comment for this update.
Pre-trial conference set in trans homicide
A pre-trial conference has been set for Nov. 18 in the homicide of trans woman London Kiki Chanel.
In May 2015, Raheam Felton allegedly stabbed to death Chanel, a Texas native who lived in North Philadelphia. He’s charged with murder and possessing an instrument of a crime.
Chanel, 21, was stabbed multiple times in her neck and back, according to court records.
Police say Chanel wasn’t the victim of a hate crime. Instead, they maintain the incident stemmed from a domestic disturbance.
Felton, 31, remains incarcerated at the Curran-Fromhold Correctional Facility in Northeast Philadelphia.
A pre-trial conference is set for 10 a.m. Nov. 18 in Room 1105 of the Criminal Justice Center, 1301 Filbert St. Philadelphia Common Pleas Judge Benjamin Lerner is scheduled to preside.
Musician’s sex-offenses case headed for trial
Charles L. Cohen, a Center City musician charged with multiple sex offenses, has waived his right to a preliminary hearing, and his case is headed for trial in Montgomery County Common Pleas Court.
Cohen was arrested Sept. 28 after traveling to a shopping complex in Upper Providence Township, where he allegedly intended to meet a 14-year-old boy for oral sex. Instead, Cohen was arrested by law-enforcement authorities engaged in a sting operation.
Cohen, 70, is charged with unlawful contact with a minor, criminal attempt of involuntary deviate sexual intercourse with a child and criminal use of a communication facility.
On Oct. 21, he appeared before Magisterial District Judge Walter F. Gadzicki Jr. and waived his right to a preliminary hearing.
“My client is denying all of the allegations,” said Autumn A. Walden, an attorney for Cohen. “He’s innocent until proven guilty — under the standard in the United States and under our Constitution.”
Cohen remains incarcerated at the Montgomery County Correctional Facility in Eagleville.
Assistant District Attorney Sophia G. Polites, who’s prosecuting Cohen, had no comment for this update.
— Timothy Cwiek
Football league fundraises for ActionAIDS
The Greater Philadelphia Flag Football League will host its third-annual Halloween party and player auction this week.
The 1980s-themed event will run from 7-10:30 p.m. Oct. 31 at William Way LGBT Community Center. The party will feature food, drinks and a DJ, and the chance to “bid” on several GPFFL players who will be up on the auction block.
Tickets are $20, and a portion of ticket sales will benefit HIV/AIDS service organization ActionAIDS.
For more information or tickets, visit http://bit.ly/1LzFA8s.
— Jen Colletta
Brunch to support LGBT survivors of domestic violence
Several local eateries are coming together to support LGBT people who have experienced domestic violence. Money from the event, called “Violence No More,” will benefit the Lutheran Settlement House’s work with the community.
A brunch will take place from noon-5 p.m. Nov. 1 at The Crazy Leprechaun Bar & Grill, 3589 Richmond St. A family-friendly DJ will set up karaoke. Well-known LGBT event producer Josh Schonewolf will provide other entertainment.
Delaware County-based 1732 Meats and Do Good Brewing Co. from Philadelphia have partnered with Crazy Leprechaun for the event. The Wine Group also donated a selection of wine. There will be a cash bar with drink specials.
Tickets cost $15 in advance or $20 at the door. To purchase tickets, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/violence-no-more-tickets-19129839866.
— Paige Cooperstein