Tim Ballard’s Claims to Fight Sex Trafficking Made Him a MAGA Star. These Women Told Police He Abused Them

🌈 Abstract

The article discusses the allegations of sexual abuse and misconduct against Tim Ballard, the founder of the anti-trafficking organization Operation Underground Railroad (OUR), by two former employees, Celeste Borys and Kira Lynch. It details the women's accounts of Ballard's inappropriate behavior and abuse during their involvement with OUR, as well as the ongoing legal proceedings against him.

🙋 Q&A

[01] Allegations Against Tim Ballard

1. What are the main allegations made against Tim Ballard by Celeste Borys and Kira Lynch?

• Borys alleges that Ballard sexually assaulted her and ejaculated on her skirt during their "couples ruse" operations, and that DNA evidence has been found to corroborate this.
• Lynch alleges that Ballard sexually assaulted her on her staircase and frequently groped and inappropriately touched her during training operations.
• Both women allege that Ballard used spiritual manipulation and claims of divine sanction to justify his abusive behavior.

2. How have Borys and Lynch been impacted by the allegations and Ballard's continued prominence?

• Borys and Lynch have mostly stayed at home, avoiding their communities, due to the harassment and scrutiny they face from Ballard's supporters.
• They feel betrayed that Ballard continues to be promoted and supported by prominent Republicans despite the allegations against him.

[02] Ballard's Anti-Trafficking Organization and Reputation

1. What were some of the issues with OUR's operations and Ballard's claims?

• OUR frequently exaggerated the group's exploits and the impact of their operations, including fabricating details about rescues.
• Ballard made unsubstantiated claims about the scale of child sex trafficking and the government's inaction, which contributed to the rise of the QAnon-linked "Save the Children" movement.
• An investigation revealed the involvement of a psychic medium and the groping of a trafficking victim during OUR operations.

2. How has Ballard's reputation and prominence continued despite the allegations?

• Ballard has maintained a high profile, making appearances at Republican events and even exploring a run for the U.S. Senate.
• Many of Ballard's supporters, including members of Kira Lynch's own family, continue to praise and defend him despite the allegations.

[03] Borys and Lynch's Experiences and Aftermath

1. How did Borys and Lynch become involved with Ballard and OUR?

• Lynch met Ballard when she was cutting his hair and was quickly drawn in by his claims about saving children from sex trafficking.
• Borys began volunteering and then working for OUR, eventually becoming Ballard's executive assistant.

2. How have Borys and Lynch processed their experiences and the aftermath?

• Borys initially struggled to see herself as a victim, but has since come to understand the trauma she experienced.
• Both women have filed lawsuits and criminal reports against Ballard, and are seeking the truth to be known and for him to face consequences.