A former pastor of a Texas megachurch, who stepped down following accusations of sexual abuse dating back to the 1980s, has been formally charged with child sexual abuse in Oklahoma. The state’s attorney general announced on Wednesday that Robert Preston Morris, 63, is facing five counts of lewd or indecent acts with a child. The alleged abuse began in 1982 when the victim, identified as C.C. in the indictment, was 12 years old and Morris was a visiting evangelist residing with her family in Hominy, Oklahoma. The abuse reportedly continued for four years.
The accuser, Cindy Clemishire, expressed gratitude towards the authorities for bringing about the indictment and remains hopeful for a just resolution. She stated, “After almost 43 years, the law has finally caught up with Robert Morris for the horrific crimes he committed against me as a child. Now, it is time for the legal system to hold him accountable.”
The Attorney General emphasized that there is no place for those who prey on children, particularly deplorable when perpetrated by a figure of trust such as a pastor. The victim has waited far too long for justice to be served.
Morris has not responded to attempts to contact him, and it is unclear if he has legal representation. The Gateway Church, which Morris founded in 2000, expressed support for the victim and emphasized the importance of accountability for abusers. The church has multiple locations and is considered one of the largest in the U.S.
Morris resigned from the church last year after allegations surfaced on a religious blog. Clemishire disclosed that the abuse began when Morris was staying with her family in 1982. The church, which has since grown to over 100,000 members, has been associated with political activities and hosted events with former President Donald Trump.
Morris could potentially face up to 20 years in prison for each of the five charges. As of now, he is not in custody.
