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A pastor from North Texas has been taken into custody, facing serious allegations of sexual abuse involving a child. Johel LaFaurie, 65, serves as the lead pastor at Iglesia Cristiana Verdad Viviente located near Greenfield Drive in Watauga, TX 76148.
According to Kera News, he was charged with continuous sexual abuse of a young child, with accusations pertaining to incidents involving a child under the age of 14 occurring multiple times within a 30-day span.
LaFaurie has not responded to requests for comment regarding these disturbing allegations.
This incident marks the second case involving a North Texas pastor in January. Jerry Nickerson, a pastor at a Frisco megachurch, was terminated from his position on January 6 after he admitted to inappropriate contact with a minor during his past as a volunteer youth leader at another church.
Members of Hope Fellowship Church received an email detailing Nickerson's dismissal after he disclosed that he had been confronted about past incidents. He stated that the misconduct occurred a decade ago, and church leaders were unaware of any allegations prior to his admission. No criminal charges have been filed against Nickerson at this time.
As reports of sexual abuse by pastors continue to surface in North Texas, many victims and their families face the daunting task of seeking justice and accountability. In this interview, experienced clergy abuse attorney Anjali Nigam shares valuable information about the rights available to victims, the legal options for holding negligent parties responsible, and the steps to take when considering legal action. Her insights aim to empower those affected by these troubling allegations.
Editor Darla Medina: Thank you for joining us. We’re discussing the alarming cases of sexual abuse allegations against pastors in North Texas. What legal rights do victims have in these situations?
Attorney Anjali Nigam: Victims of sexual abuse have several legal rights. They can pursue criminal charges against the abuser, but they also have the option to file civil lawsuits. This can provide them with financial compensation for the harm they’ve suffered.
Medina: How can victims hold negligent parties accountable, such as churches or organizations that may have overlooked warning signs?
Nigam: Victims can file civil suits against not only the abuser but also the institutions that may have been negligent in preventing the abuse. This includes showing that the organization failed to protect its members or ignored prior allegations.
Medina: What steps should a victim take if they are considering legal action?
Nigam: The first step is to consult with an attorney who specializes in sexual abuse cases. They can help navigate the legal process, gather evidence, and understand the specific laws in Texas. It’s important for victims to know they are not alone and that there are resources available to support them.
Medina: What message would you like to convey to victims who may feel hesitant to come forward?
Nigam: I want them to know that their voices matter. Coming forward can be a powerful step not only for their own healing but also for preventing further abuse. There are legal protections in place, and they deserve justice and support.
Medina: Thank you for sharing your expertise on this sensitive topic. It’s vital for victims to understand their rights and options.
If you or a loved one has been a victim of sexual abuse by a pastor, know that you are not alone. There are legal protections in place to help you seek accountability and support. We encourage families to reach out for a free consultation to discuss your situation and explore the options available to you. Your voice deserves to be heard, and together, we can work towards a path of healing and justice.
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