Introduction:

Richard Kirkland Mallard of Orem, Utah, has been charged with 41 felony counts of child sexual exploitation, including 9 counts of aggravated sexual exploitation of a minor. Despite the seriousness of these crimes, he was released on bond — after receiving letters of support from community members, including a Brigham Young University dean.

This decision endangers children and highlights a broader problem: powerful community figures and institutions too often shield predators instead of protecting victims.

Why This Matters:

Children’s safety must come first — not releasing those facing such serious charges. The release of Richard Mallard, even with overwhelming evidence against him, is a failure of the justice system and a betrayal of community trust.

The fact that respected leaders in positions of influence — including within Utah’s dominant religious and educational institutions — vouched for him shows how deeply entrenched protection of abusers can be. This is not just about one man — it is about a pattern where reputation is prioritized over children’s safety.

Our Demands:

We, the undersigned, demand:

Immediate review of Richard Mallard’s release on bond and stricter enforcement of protections for the community.

Utah lawmakers to ban bail release for individuals charged with aggravated child sexual exploitation.

Greater accountability and transparency from all institutions — religious, educational, and civic — when leaders or members, or their friends and family are implicated in crimes against children.
Creation of a statewide child protection task force to ensure no institution shields predators from accountability.

This is not about religion — this is about children’s lives. Our community cannot allow people facing such serious charges, especially those with institutional or community support to walk free while victims are left unprotected. 

We call on Utah courts, lawmakers, and institutions across the state to take immediate action. Protect the children. End the cover ups. Demand accountability.

We need your help. The silence in Utah ends here!