Exclusive: Lead Plaintiff Katherine Leach Weighs In on the Robert Morris & Gateway Church RICO Case

What the amended complaint alleges, why civil RICO is on the table, and how New Life Church and Brady Boyd factor into the public conversation.

Introduction

This post features an exclusive interview with Katherine Leach, the lead plaintiff in a civil RICO lawsuit naming Robert Morris and Gateway Church. Beyond headlines, we focus on what the lawsuit alleges, why “civil RICO” appears in a church context, and what this moment could mean for transparency, stewardship, and trust in large ministries. We also address how New Life Church in Colorado Springs and Brady Boyd enter the wider public conversation surrounding donor communications and accountability.

What the Case Is (and Isn’t)

• Civil, not criminal: The matter discussed here is a civil lawsuit. No one is convicted of anything.

• Allegations, not findings: Claims in complaints are allegations that must be proven in court.

• Focus on communications: A central question is how churches communicate about missions, tithes, and designated gifts.

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Why “Civil RICO” in a Church Context?

“Civil RICO” (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act) allows private parties to sue if they believe a pattern of specified predicate acts—often involving mail or wire communications—caused them harm. In plain language, the legal debate is whether certain fundraising or promotional statements rise to the level of legally actionable misrepresentation. That’s for the courts to decide.

Key Themes From the Interview

1) Donor Expectations vs. Institutional Discretion

Many donors rely on stated percentages (e.g., “X% to missions”) or guarantees (like a “tithe refund”). The dispute centers on what those claims mean in practice and how they’re verified.

2) The Role of Audits, Letters & Archives

Audits, financial letters, and archived statements can help or hurt both sides. The interview explores how documentation builds—or challenges—narratives about oversight and accountability.

3) Governance & Accountability

Boards, independent audits, conflict-of-interest policies, and precise language in appeals matter. The conversation highlights best practices churches can adopt to enhance trust.

4) The Wider Conversation: New Life Church & Brady Boyd

Public discussions have referenced New Life Church (Colorado Springs) and former senior pastor Brady Boyd. We explain how and why they appear in the narrative and what observers might reasonably watch for as facts develop.

What to Watch Next

• Discovery & motions: Expect legal skirmishes over documents, depositions, and definitions.

• Clarity around representations: Courts may probe how specific statements were made, interpreted, and substantiated.

• Implications for ministries: Regardless of outcome, churches may revisit how they state missions percentages, guarantees, and designated-fund policies.

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Practical Takeaways for Church Leaders & Donors

• Say it clearly, document it carefully: If you promise a percentage or guarantee, define terms and show the math.

• Independent verification: Regular independent audits and accessible summaries improve confidence.

• Designations & restrictions: Put designated-gift policies in writing and report back to donors on outcomes.

• Board transparency: Publish board roles, conflict policies, and key governance practices.

About Our Guest: Katherine Leach

Leach explains why she stepped forward, what questions she believes still need public answers, and how she hopes this case—regardless of the final ruling—might set higher standards for transparency, stewardship, and member trust across large ministries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Does a civil RICO claim mean someone did something criminal? A: Not necessarily. Civil RICO is a separate, civil pathway. Allegations must be proven; defendants are entitled to defend themselves fully.

Q2: Why do donor-communication details matter so much? A: Because donors often rely on stated percentages, guarantees, or designations when deciding to give. Clear definitions and verification protect both donors and ministries.

Q3: What about New Life Church and Brady Boyd? A: They are part of the broader public conversation. Inclusion in discussion does not imply liability; it reflects how observers are drawing connections and asking questions.

Q4: What should congregations do now? A: Keep giving focused on mission, ask for clarity where needed, and encourage governance best practices—transparent reporting, independent audits, and consistent documentation.

Join the Conversation

• What does best-in-class transparency look like in your church?

• How should ministries present missions percentages and refund guarantees?

• What reporting would help donors feel confident year after year?

Share your thoughts in the comments, and consider sending this to church boards, finance committees, and small-group leaders who care about clear, trustworthy stewardship.

Call to Action

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• Comment with questions you’d like us to ask in our next interview

Legal & Editorial Disclaimer

This post is for news, commentary, and public-interest discussion. It summarizes allegations and opinions from ongoing civil litigation. All defendants and mentioned parties are presumed innocent and not liable unless and until proven otherwise in court. Nothing here is legal, tax, financial, or accounting advice. Consult qualified professionals for guidance on your situation. Guest statements are their own. We strive for accuracy but cannot guarantee completeness; if you believe something is inaccurate, please contact us for review.