Former Texas Megachurch Pastor Faces Child Sexual Abuse Charges
A former pastor of a prominent Texas megachurch is set to surrender to authorities in Oklahoma to face child sexual abuse charges. Robert Preston Morris, 63, is expected to turn himself in to officials in Osage County, where he has been charged with five counts of lewd or indecent acts with a child. The charges were filed last week, and Morris’s attorney, Mack Martin, confirmed the plan for his surrender. Martin declined to comment on the specifics of the charges but indicated that he would enter a not guilty plea on Morris’s behalf. A bond of $50,000 has been set by an Osage County judge, and Morris has been ordered to surrender his passport to the local sheriff.
Background of the Allegations
The allegations against Morris date back to the 1980s, when he was a traveling evangelist. According to court records and the Oklahoma Attorney General’s office, the abuse began in 1982 when the victim, referred to as C.C. in the indictment, was just 12 years old. At the time, Morris was staying with the victim’s family in Hominy, Oklahoma. The alleged abuse continued for four years. The case gained attention last year when the victim, now 55, came forward with the accusations. This led to Morris’s resignation as pastor of Gateway Church in Southlake, a suburb of Dallas.
The Victim’s Statement
Cindy Clemishire, the woman who accused Morris of abuse, has been vocal about her experience. In a statement, she expressed gratitude to the authorities for their efforts in pursuing the indictment. Clemishire, who has chosen to reveal her name, said, “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.” Her courage in speaking out has brought attention to the case, highlighting the long wait for justice that many victims of childhood abuse face.
Legal and Potential Consequences
Morris is facing serious legal consequences if convicted. Each of the five charges of lewd or indecent acts with a child carries a potential sentence of up to 20 years in prison. The case is being handled by the Osage County court, where Morris is expected to appear soon. His legal team, led by attorney Mack Martin, will likely argue for his innocence, but the prosecution will seek to prove the allegations based on the evidence and testimony provided by Clemishire and any other witnesses.
Morris’s Public Profile and Church Connections
Morris was not only a religious leader but also a politically active figure. During his time as pastor of Gateway Church, he hosted high-profile events, including a 2020 discussion on race relations and the economy featuring former President Donald Trump. The church’s Dallas campus was the venue for this event, which drew significant media attention. Morris’s resignation last year followed the initial allegations, but the charges filed in Oklahoma have brought renewed scrutiny to his past and his leadership role in the church.
Community Reaction and Broader Implications
The case has sparked a mixture of shock and outrage, particularly within the religious community. Many are grappling with the idea that someone in a position of trust, such as a pastor, could be accused of such serious crimes. Clemishire’s decision to go public has also raised awareness about the importance of believing and supporting victims of abuse. This case serves as a reminder of the lasting impact of abuse and the need for accountability, regardless of the time that has passed since the alleged crimes occurred. As the legal process unfolds, the community will be watching closely to see how justice is served in this case.
