Ormond’s Riverbend Academy Under Investigation for Abuse

Riverbend Academy, a private school in Ormond Beach, is under criminal investigation for potential abuse spanning over two decades. The Ormond Beach Police Department announced this week that they were investigating the Academy and the connected Riverbend Community Church over allegations that began in the early 2000s. “Please remember this is an active and ongoing investigation,” said Ormond Beach Police Chief Jesse Godfrey. “We take these allegations very seriously and are committed to supporting potential victims and protecting this community, all while conducting a thorough and impartial investigation.” Both facilities are located at 2080 W. Granada Blvd in Ormond Beach. Details on the potential offenses committed at the school and church are still blurry, but the Ormond Beach Police Department is encouraging those who might’ve been victims to reach out. Detective Marianne Mele is the point of contact for potential victims, and the OBPD is asking those with relevant information to email Marianne.Mele@ormondbeach.org. In their release announcing the investigation, the OBPD stated that all reports ‘will be handled with sensitivity and confidentiality’.