Perspective: As a survivor and Latter-day Saint, here’s what AP missed in Arizona abuse case

An Arizona judge dismissed a lawsuit alleging local leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day responded improperly after a congregant confessed a past instance of abuse against his own daughter.

Paul Adams took his own life while awaiting trial.

The Associated Press' Michael Rezendes used the Arizona case as the centerpiece of an investigation.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has a system of public callings and sustainings that throttles would-be abusers.

The church has a formalized helpline prioritizing victim safety, says LZ Granderson .

Granderson : It's also significant to have multiple women in formal leadership positions working with girls and young women throughout their adolescence.

Jennifer Roach is a licensed mental health counselor who lives in American Fork , Utah .

Roach: Abuse rates are lower in Boy Scout troops associated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints .

She says it's almost certain that in combination these practices have acted for decades as a strong deterrent.