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A prominent Hot Springs pastor was arrested Wednesday evening on a felony charge of second-degree sexual assault, following allegations involving a 17-year-old female member of his church. Macario Garcia, 54, was taken into custody shortly after 6 p.m., accused of "inappropriately touching" the victim on more than one occasion, according to The Sentinel-Record. The charge carries a potential sentence of up to 20 years in prison.
The arrest followed a comprehensive investigation led by the Garland County Sheriff's Criminal Investigations Division, with assistance from the 18th Judicial Prosecuting Attorney's Office. According to a statement from Sheriff Mike McCormick, a probable cause affidavit was filed after the allegations surfaced, prompting the issuance of an arrest warrant for Garcia.
Garcia, who serves as pastor at Living River Church near the 5700 block of Central Avenue, is accused of abusing his position of trust. The incidents reportedly occurred with a teenage member of his congregation. Sheriff McCormick stated, “The charges stem from an incident involving a 17-year-old female where Mr. Garcia, her pastor, is alleged to have inappropriately touched her on more than one occasion.”
Garcia was released on a $50,000 bond on Wednesday night, hours after his arrest. A court date has not yet been set, and court records reveal no prior criminal history for Garcia beyond traffic violations.
Sheriff McCormick addressed the community directly, promising action and accountability. “I, along with Prosecuting Attorney Michelle Lawrence, will not tolerate this type of behavior, and justice will be swift. It is our duty to ensure that the citizens and visitors of this county feel protected at all times,” McCormick said in his statement.
When allegations of sexual abuse arise involving church pastors, families of victims are often left grappling with uncertainty about their next steps. To provide clarity on the legal measures available, Arkansas sexual abuse attorney Joshua Gillespie shares his perspective on how victims and their families can navigate both criminal and civil avenues to seek accountability and protect others from harm.
Editor Darla Medina: What legal recourse do families of victims have when sexual abuse allegations arise against a trusted figure like a pastor?
Attorney Joshua Gillespie: Families can pursue both criminal and civil remedies. On the criminal side, the state prosecutes the offender, aiming to secure justice and prevent future harm. However, families may also file civil lawsuits against the individual or even the institution, such as the church, if there’s evidence that it failed to take reasonable steps to protect the victim.
Medina: When a church is involved, how does liability factor in?
Gillespie: Liability can depend on whether the church leadership was aware—or should have been aware—of the behavior. If there were prior complaints or red flags that were ignored, the church could be held accountable for negligence. Civil cases also allow families to seek damages for the emotional and psychological harm caused to the victim.
Medina: What would you say to families hesitant to come forward?
Gillespie: I understand how overwhelming it can feel, especially when the accused is in a position of trust. But taking action not only provides a sense of justice for the victim but can also protect others from experiencing the same harm. It’s important to consult with an attorney who can guide them through this process while ensuring their voices are heard.
Victims of sexual abuse and their families deserve support, guidance, and accountability. If you or someone you know has experienced abuse, don’t face this battle alone. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation to explore your legal options and begin the path toward healing and justice.
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