Google Street View image showing the front exterior of Rockville Assembly of God church in Rockville, Maryland
A Place of Healing Betrayed
Churches should serve as sanctuaries—spaces where congregants find community, comfort, and support. They carry a sacred duty to protect everyone who turns to them for refuge.
Yet Rockville Assembly of God in Rockville, MD, fundamentally betrayed the very purpose it was meant to serve.
By granting a predator trusted access to children, the church abandoned its calling and allowed abuse to take place inside its walls.
Lawsuit Filed
A civil complaint filed by Andreozzi and Foote in Montgomery County Circuit Court against Rockville Assembly of God alleges that John Hoover, the minister’s son‑in‑law and church deacon, sexually abused a child who attended the church. The complaint, filed under the Maryland Child Victims Act, holds the church responsible for failing to monitor Hoover’s conduct and remove him as a leader.
What You Should Know
Beginning around 1967, Hoover used his role as a trusted mentor to groom and sexually abuse the victim. However, this was far from an isolated incident—it is believed that Hoover abused other children both before and after abusing the victim.
Although the church knew of Hooever’s past as a sex offender, the suit alleges, they never intervened, never warned the victim’s family of the danger, and never prevented him from interacting with children.
By ignoring Hoover’s history and granting him unrestrained access to children, the church turned what should have been a refuge into a place of abuse.
Why This Case Matters
In John Hoover’s case, authorities never conducted a criminal investigation
Cases like these highlight the importance of survivors turning to civil lawsuits to secure justice, accountability, and real change. For all survivors of church abuse—whether past or present—this path remains a critical way to have their voices heard and to push churches to reform. This lawsuit underscores the urgent need for clear reporting protocols, mandatory abuse prevention training, and constant vigilance in every church.
How We Can Help
If you or someone you know was abused by John Hoover, other leaders at Rockville Assembly of God, or anyone in the church, you deserve justice.
Our team provides compassionate, trauma‑informed support every step of the way.
Contact Andreozzi + Foote for a free, confidential consultation today.
