Closing arguments in $29M Boy Scouts abuse trial

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — Closing arguments are expected to begin on Thursday in a $29 million sex abuse lawsuit against the Boy Scouts of America.

A Portland man filed the suit against the Scouts and their Cascade Pacific Council, claiming they were negligent for failing to prevent abuse of Scouts.

His lawyers have introduced more than 1,000 files on Scout leaders or volunteers accused of abuse from 1965 to the middle of 1984 as part of the case.

The attorneys argue the secret files show the Boy Scouts knew about the problem but did nothing to protect boys over the years.

The Scouts say the files helped protect boys by weeding out suspected molesters.

The trial lasted three weeks and included testimony from several victims and various state and national Scout leaders.