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A pastor from New Jersey has been charged with multiple counts of sexual assault after allegedly drugging and assaulting a 16-year-old teenager, according to The Roys Report. Authorities confirmed that 64-year-old Charles B. Brinson, bishop of the Brinson Memorial Church located at 523 New Willow St, Trenton, NJ 08618, was arrested at his home on February 19, 2025
The Mercer County Prosecutor's Office has charged Brinson with two counts of first-degree aggravated sexual assault involving an incapacitated victim and two counts of second-degree endangering the welfare of a child. Investigators revealed that Brinson allegedly assaulted the teenager twice in January and February of 2024 at his residence, which is located near the church on Brinton Avenue.
According to the prosecutor's office, the victim reported that Brinson administered an unidentified substance that caused the teen to lose consciousness. Following the second incident, the victim underwent a medical examination at a local hospital. Authorities say the teenager came forward with the allegations in February 2024, leading to Brinson's arrest.
The prosecutor’s office has filed a motion to detain Brinson without bail pending trial. Court records indicate that he remains in jail, with a hearing scheduled later this month.
Local residents expressed shock over the charges. Brooke Baker, who lives near Brinson Memorial Church, shared her concerns, saying, “To know that we had somebody that close that’s doing things and we didn’t know? It’s kinda freaky.”
Brinson Memorial Church has not yet responded to requests for comment. On its social media platforms, the church describes itself as “the perfect church for an imperfect people.”
This is not the first time Brinson has faced accusations of sexual misconduct. Nearly two decades ago, in 2008, he was arrested in Philadelphia after allegedly picking up a 15-year-old boy and driving him to his home in Florence, New Jersey, where the assault took place. Authorities reported that Brinson met the teen through an online chatroom.
In 2009, Brinson pleaded guilty to one count of corruption of a minor and was sentenced to four years of probation. He was also required to register as a sex offender.
Brinson has been a polarizing figure in Trenton for years. In 2021, he was at the center of a local dispute when the Trenton City Council briefly renamed a portion of Brinton Avenue in honor of his parents. The decision was later reversed after Brinson’s 2008 arrest came to light.
Known for his flamboyant lifestyle, Brinson has often drawn attention for his fur coats, vintage luxury cars, and the religious compound that bears his family name. Despite this, his legacy has been overshadowed by past and present accusations that now raise serious questions about accountability within his church and the broader community.
Brinson’s court proceedings will be closely watched as the legal process unfolds.
Victims of sexual abuse often face overwhelming challenges when the perpetrator is a trusted community figure, such as a pastor. In this interview, New Jersey attorney Stewart Ryan discusses the legal avenues available to survivors sexually abused by a bishop or pastor, including holding both the abuser and enabling institutions accountable. With decades of experience representing victims, Ryan provides a clear understanding of how survivors can navigate the civil justice system to seek compensation and systemic change.
Darla Medina, Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Mr. Ryan. With these allegations against Charles Brinson, many are asking about the legal options available to victims of sexual abuse, especially when the abuser is in a position of trust, like a pastor. How can victims begin to take action?
Stewart Ryan, Attorney: Cases like these are deeply painful, and it’s important for victims to know that they do have rights, both criminally and civilly. From a legal standpoint, the first step is reporting the abuse to law enforcement, which initiates the criminal process. However, victims can also pursue accountability through the civil justice system, which is designed to address damages caused by the abuse.
Medina: What does the civil process look like in these cases?
Ryan: In civil lawsuits, victims can bring claims against not only the abuser but also any institution or organization that enabled the abuse through negligence. For example, if the church failed to properly vet or supervise the pastor, or ignored prior warnings about his behavior, they could be held liable for their role in allowing the abuse to occur. These cases focus on compensating victims for the harm they’ve suffered—physically, emotionally, and financially.
Medina: How can victims prove negligence on the part of an organization, such as a church?
Ryan: Proving negligence often involves demonstrating that the organization had prior knowledge of the abuser’s behavior or failed to take reasonable steps to prevent harm. In this case, for instance, Brinson’s past conviction for sexually abusing a minor might raise serious questions about what the church knew and whether they took appropriate actions to safeguard others. Evidence such as internal documents, testimony from other victims or witnesses, and patterns of behavior are crucial in building a case.
Medina: What would you say to victims who are hesitant to come forward, perhaps because they feel intimidated or fear retaliation?
Ryan: It’s understandable to feel that way, especially when the abuser is someone in a position of authority or trust. However, victims should know that they are not alone. They have the right to speak up and seek justice without fear of retaliation. There are also organizations and legal advocates who specialize in supporting survivors through this process. Additionally, civil lawsuits can often be pursued anonymously to protect a victim’s identity.
Medina: What outcomes can victims typically expect from a civil case?
Ryan: While every case is unique, successful civil cases can result in monetary compensation for medical expenses, therapy costs, emotional distress, and other damages. Beyond financial compensation, these lawsuits also send a powerful message that enablers of abuse will be held accountable, which can lead to systemic changes that protect others in the future.
Medina: It’s clear that the path to justice can be complex, but your insights are incredibly valuable. Is there anything else you’d like readers to know?
Ryan: I would just emphasize that victims have the right to hold their abusers and any negligent parties accountable. No one should suffer in silence. Reaching out to an experienced attorney who has handled cases like these can be a significant step toward finding justice and healing.
If your family has been impacted by the devastating harm caused by a trusted pastor, know that you are not alone. Legal options are available to help you seek justice and accountability. Our experienced team is here to provide guidance and support every step of the way. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation to discuss your case and explore the steps you can take to protect your rights.
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