Legal Analysis By Attorneys
Breaking Legal News
An Assemblies of God pastor from a small central California community has been arrested following an investigation into allegations that he sexually assaulted a 15-year-old girl, according to The Roys Report.
Authorities identified the suspect as Joshua Kemper, 47, lead pastor at Foothill Church located at 45543 Rd 415, Coarsegold, CA 93614. The Madera County Sheriff’s Office reported that Kemper maintained an ongoing “relationship” with the minor between March and July of this year.
Police arrested Kemper at his home on October 27, charging him with 14 felony counts linked to the sexual abuse of a minor. His charges include sending harmful material to a minor with intent to seduce, contacting a minor for lewd purposes, meeting with a minor for lewd behavior, possession of sexual content involving a child, sexual penetration with a foreign object, unlawful sexual intercourse, oral copulation with an intoxicated victim, four counts of oral copulation with a victim under 16, and three counts of lewd acts with a minor.
Investigators allege that Kemper used his position of authority within the church to manipulate the young victim. Court documents show the abuse reportedly took place at Foothill Church, the victim’s residence, and inside Kemper’s vehicle.
Authorities are continuing to review evidence in the case and are urging anyone with additional information to come forward. The Madera County Sheriff’s Office has asked potential witnesses or other victims to contact them directly as the investigation develops.
When allegations of sexual abuse involve a member of the clergy, families often struggle to understand their legal rights and where to begin seeking accountability. In this interview, California sexual abuse attorney Jason Amala explains the legal steps victims and their families can take, how civil cases differ from criminal proceedings, and what protections the law provides for survivors of sexual abuse by religious leaders.
Editor Darla Medina: When allegations like these surface, what legal paths are available for victims and their families?
Attorney Jason Amala: Families often have both criminal and civil options. The criminal process is handled by the state, but victims can also file a civil lawsuit to hold the institution accountable if negligence played a role—such as inadequate background checks or ignoring prior complaints.
Medina: So even if the offender is charged, the family can still act separately?
Amala: Absolutely. A civil claim can move forward independently of criminal charges. It can help victims recover compensation for counseling, emotional trauma, and other damages.
Medina: What’s your message to families who might be afraid to come forward?
Amala: You’re not alone, and reporting can prevent further harm. Speaking with a lawyer experienced in clergy abuse cases can provide clarity on next steps and protect the victim’s rights from the very beginning.
If you or someone you love has experienced sexual abuse by a pastor or other religious leader, you do not have to face the process alone. Our team is here to listen, guide, and help you understand your legal options. Contact us today for a free and confidential consultation to learn how we can support your family’s path to justice and recovery.
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