Authorities said a 53-year-old pastor, later identified as Victor, faces serious charges of ssxual abuse and kidnapping after members of his own congregation brought to light the allegations. As per reports, he was arrested and booked into jail without bail.
He is charged with three counts of kidnapping and four counts of molesting a girl younger than 14. These charges follow allegations of ssxual abuse that reportedly began when the victims were in their early teens.
The daughter of a church elder who is now 21 years old, identified as Karen, made the initial accusation. She reported that Victor ssxually abused her starting when she was just 13 years old. According to Karen, despite telling him she didn’t feel safe and that they shouldn’t do it, the pastor convinced her that it was God’s will for them to have ssxual relations and forced her to engage in the unlawful act. She recounted how he took her to a hotel near her school on multiple occasions, resulting in a profound and damaging impact on her mental health and well-being.
The case took a turn for the worse as another young member of the congregation, a 16-year-old girl identified as Joseline, came forward with her own experience. She described an encounter where the pastor asked for a private meeting at the church, during which he hugged her tight and attempted to kiss her. She also said Victor touched her thigh and put her hand on his thigh.
The police department, recognizing the gravity and sensitivity of the case, is investigating the possibility of more victims. Police officials urged others who might have been affected to come forward, assuring them of support and emphasizing the importance of holding Victor accountable to prevent future abuses.
The congregation expressed shock and disbelief at the allegations against a man they had respected as a spiritual leader. Members of the church emphasized that, while they loved their pastor, if the allegations were true, he should face the consequences.
