Homeschooling’s 

Invisible Children

Son of Shannon and Dale Hickman

Content note: Case narratives include descriptions of severe violence inflicted on children, including abuse and neglect, sexual violence, torture, and murder, as well as mentions of suicide and domestic violence. They also include photos of victims and perpetrators of violence.

A boy, G. (b. 2013), was physically abused by his mother, Shannon Hickman. G. was homeschooled.

Shannon and Dale Hickman served 6 years in prison following the death of their third child and infant son David Hickman in 2009. They were members of the Followers of Christ Church in Oregon City, which teaches the use of prayer instead of modern medicine. David was born prematurely at home and a lack of medical care resulted in his death. The couple were allowed to homeschool G. after being released from prison in 2017. 

The abuse came to light when Shannon Hickman slapped G. on the side of his head, causing his nose to bleed. G. was participating in a live virtual assessment of his homeschooling at the time, and his teacher reported the abuse after witnessing it. Hickman was convicted of criminal treatment in the first degree and was sentenced to home confinement, probation, and counseling for parenting skills. 

Date: October 2020
Location: Oregon City, Clackamas County, Oregon

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Documents: Date:
Dale, Shannon Hickman Convicted Of Manslaughter In Faith-Healing Death Of Their Infant Son 2011-09-30
Faith-healing mother accused of abusing son 2021-05-24
Oregon City faith-healing church member back in jail 2021-05-25
Faith-healing Oregon City mom sentenced for hurting son 2022-06-22
Oregon City mom pleads guilty to injuring child  2022-06-29