Palm Bay, FL - Roberson Douge, Pastor of Apostolic Church of Christ and Martial Arts Teacher at Tiger Claw Kung Fu Academy, Accused of Sexually Abusing Two Girls

FL Pastor Arrested For Sexually Abusing Two Teens

ClickOrlando recently reported that a Palm Bay pastor has been accused of sexually abusing two minors while the pastor of Apostolic Church of Christ is located at 1402 Norman St NE, Palm Bay, FL 32907. 

Both girls reported similar abuse to the police on Monday, September 17, 2022. Roberson Douge, 42, was arrested on September 22, 2022. One victim, under the age of 16, met Douge in 2019 when her family began attending the Apostolic Church of Christ. The victim claimed the abuse would occur when he took her home after spending time at his house with his family. The second victim began volunteering at the church when she met Douge but also attended his martial arts dojo, Tiger Claw Kung Fu Academy. She reported to the police that the abuse would take place at each location. 

Douge is being held in the Brevard County Jail on 20 preliminary felony charges, including 10 counts of lewd or lascivious battery of a victim 12-16 years old, and sexual battery on a victim between the ages of 16 - 17 by an offender than 24 year old.

Seeking Justice For Victims Sexually Abused By a Church Pastor

Attorney contributor Michael Haggard helps victims of church sex abuse seek justice by filing church sex abuse lawsuits in Florida. Michael recently highlighted the legal rights available for victims sexually abused by a church pastor.

"Several religious leaders, including church pastors, have been accused of sexual abuse. This type of abuse can happen to people of any age, but too often it involves vulnerable children who look up to the pastor with respect and trust. In order to protect the church congregation and community against church sexual abuse, churches should do everything they can to prevent it. Vetting staff by conducting background checks, installing cameras throughout the church property, and investigating any reports of misconduct are all ways a church can reduce the risk of dangers. If a religious institution failed to put in place proper safety measures, it could be considered negligent."

"Furthermore, if a pastor has been accused of sexual misconduct in the past, and the church neglected to conduct a comprehensive investigation, it could be considered negligent and held accountably. In certain circumstances, victims sexually abused by a pastor may be able to file a lawsuit that could result in financial compensation. As with any sexual abuse claim, victims are urged to seek the assistance of an experienced church sex abuse lawyer."

Sources:

ClickOrlando