The Indictment of Robert Morris: A Texas Megachurch Founder Faces Criminal Charges
The founder of Gateway Church in Texas, Robert Morris, faces serious criminal charges involving a child. Recently indicted on five counts of lewd or indecent acts with a child, Morris’s case has drawn significant attention due to his prominence in the evangelical community. The charges stem from events that began in 1982, when Morris, then 21, allegedly initiated a four-year cycle of abuse against a 12-year-old girl. This case underscores the vulnerability of minors and the gravity of such offenses, especially when committed by figures in positions of trust.
A Chronicle of Abuse: The Allegations Against Morris
The abuse allegations against Robert Morris detail a disturbing pattern that began during a visit to the victim’s home in Oklahoma. The victim, Cindy Clemishire, was just 12 when Morris, who was staying with her family, started the abuse. Over four years, the acts escalated, involving inappropriate touching and other lewd acts, continuing until Clemishire was 14. Morris allegedly coerced her into silence, warning her that revealing the abuse would "ruin everything," a mandate that kept her quiet for decades. Clemishire’s courage to come forward in 2023 led to Morris’s resignation and the current legal proceedings.
Cindy Clemishire’s Journey: From Silence to Seeking Justice
Cindy Clemishire’s story one of resilience and the quest for justice. She endured the abuse in silence for over 40 years, the weight of Morris’s coercion heavy on her heart. Her decision to speak publicly last year marked a turning point, not only for her personal healing but also for accountability. Clemishire expressed gratitude to Oklahoma authorities for their pursuit of justice, emphasizing the long-awaited reckoning for Morris. Her journey highlights the challenges victims face in seeking justice, including a past attempt at restitution that failed due to a nondisclosure agreement.
