Texas Megachurch Leader Admits Guilt in Shocking Child Sex Abuse Case: What You Need to Know

Pawhuska, Oklahoma — Robert Preston Morris, the former leader of a Texas megachurch, pleaded guilty to five counts related to the sexual abuse of a child. This plea marked a significant chapter in a case that began decades ago.

Morris, now 64, admitted to abusing a 12-year-old girl, Cindy Clemishire, starting in 1982 while he was a traveling evangelist. The abuse continued for four years, culminating in his recent plea before a judge in Oklahoma’s Osage County.

Morris was the senior pastor at Gateway Church in Southlake, Texas, known as one of the largest megachurches in the nation. He stepped down from his role last year after the allegations surfaced. Earlier this year, an Oklahoma grand jury indicted him. As part of a plea deal, he received a 10-year suspended sentence with six months to be served in jail.

Cindy Clemishire, now 55, expressed relief about the outcome. “Justice has finally been served,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of speaking out against abuse. She hopes her story will encourage other victims to come forward. “The only way to stop child sexual abuse is to speak up,” she said.

Morris must register as a sex offender and will be monitored by Texas authorities. Additionally, he is required to pay for his incarceration costs and provide restitution to Clemishire. His attorney mentioned that Morris sought to take responsibility for his actions. He also expressed a desire to apologize and seek forgiveness from the victim and her family.

Previously, when questioned about similar allegations, Morris had described his past behavior as inappropriate but downplayed the severity of his actions, framing it as “kissing and petting.”

Founded in 2000, Gateway Church has been influential beyond just religious services. Morris was politically active and served on former President Donald Trump’s advisory board, even hosting him at the church for discussions on race relations and economy.

As the dust settles on this case, it sheds light on a troubling issue. In a study by the National Sexual Violence Resource Center, it’s stated that 1 in 4 girls will experience sexual abuse before reaching adulthood. Awareness and education about these issues are crucial. The response from the community and social media indicates a growing demand for accountability, especially among figures in positions of trust.

Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond highlighted the gravity of the situation, calling it “despicable” that a pastor exploited his role to prey on a child. He emphasized the long wait for justice for Clemishire.

While Gateway Church has chosen to remain silent on the matter, the ripples from this case will likely continue to resonate within communities and among those advocating for victim rights.

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