Stacie Orrico, a former Christian music singer, has recently filed a lawsuit against her ex-manager, Britt Ham, and Universal Music Group, alleging sexual abuse that occurred when she was just a child. According to Orrico, Ham began touching her inappropriately when she was only 14 years old. The lawsuit claims that Ham took advantage of Orrico’s trust by isolating her from her parents under the pretense of daily Bible study.
During a trip to Los Angeles in July 2001 for concert rehearsals, Orrico alleges that Ham escalated the abuse by kissing her, touching her genitals, and even rubbing his penis on her until he ejaculated. The abuse continued the following month during another stay at the same hotel, and by 2003, Ham had reportedly engaged in penetrative sex with Orrico when she was just 17 years old.
Orrico also claims that other members of the music industry were aware of the abuse, including Electric and Music Industries label executives Greg Ham and Eddie DeGarmo. EMI was later acquired by Universal Music Group, which is why Orrico has included them in the lawsuit.
In response to the allegations, Greg Ham allegedly informed Orrico’s parents of the inappropriate relationship between Orrico and Britt Ham, while Eddie DeGarmo acknowledged knowing about the misconduct in 2002 but allegedly blamed Orrico for the relationship and warned her that it could jeopardize her career.
The lawsuit filed by Orrico includes charges of childhood sexual abuse, sexual battery, negligence, and more. Despite attempts to reach out to Britt Ham for comment, there has been no response thus far.
This disturbing case sheds light on the dark side of the music industry and highlights the importance of protecting young artists from exploitation and abuse. Orrico’s bravery in coming forward with her story serves as a reminder of the urgent need for accountability and justice in cases of sexual misconduct.
