Eddie Long, a minister who has been supported by Ray Lewis and other NFL players, has settled a lawsuit against four boys who said he sexually abused them.
Long’s church posted a statement on its web site confirming that the settlement had been reached. That statement is below.
Resolution Statement
After a series of discussions, all parties involved have decided to resolve the civil cases out of court. This decision was made to bring closure to this matter and to allow us to move forward with the plans God has for this ministry.
As is usually the case when civil lawsuits resolve out of court, we cannot discuss any details regarding the resolution or the resolution process, as they are confidential.
This resolution is the most reasonable road for everyone to travel.
Long ran a boys’ academy that had Lewis on its board, and Long also received outspoken support from former Lions linebacker Anthony Cannon.
Long was accused of seducing teenage boys "with cars, money, clothes, jewelry, international trips and access to celebrities."
Long frequently speaks out against homosexuality and has been a vigorous opponent of same-sex marriage.
Terms of the settlement were not disclosed.