Gateway Church Founder Robert Morris Pleads Not Guilty to Child Abuse Charges
In a shocking turn of events, Robert Morris, the founder of Gateway Church in Southlake, Texas, has officially pleaded "not guilty" to five counts of lewd or indecent acts with a child. This plea follows serious allegations made by 54-year-old Cindy Clemishire, who claims that Morris abused her over several years, starting when she was just 12 years old.
Morris, who was indicted by a multi-county grand jury last Wednesday, appeared in court with his attorney, Mack Martin, to enter his plea. According to records from the Osage County Court in Oklahoma, Morris acknowledged the charges against him and was informed of his rights before pleading not guilty. He remains free on a $50,000 bond and is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on May 9.
Cindy Clemishire’s allegations first surfaced last June, when she detailed the alleged abuse that occurred during the 1980s while Morris was a traveling evangelist. Clemishire expressed her perspective on Morris’ plea, suggesting it was more of a legal strategy than a genuine challenge to her claims. "Any attorney would advise their client to plead not guilty," she stated, indicating that this move could open up avenues for negotiation.
The Gateway Church community has been rocked by these allegations, and church officials have sought to distance themselves from Morris. Nic Lesmeister, the executive pastor of global outreach, emphasized the church’s commitment to moving forward and focused on the well-being of those affected by the situation. "We won’t be continuing to update you on the proceedings of the case, but we’re continuing to pray for everybody involved," he said.
Survivor advocates have expressed concern regarding Morris’ plea. Dee Parsons from The Wartburg Watch, who first reported Clemishire’s allegations, criticized the not guilty plea, stating, "If he pleads ‘not guilty,’ we will know exactly how he treats the truth." Others echoed similar sentiments, suggesting that true repentance would involve accepting responsibility for one’s actions.
The charges against Morris carry serious implications. If convicted on all counts, he could face a maximum of 100 years in prison. However, due to the laws in effect at the time of the alleged offenses, he could also receive a significantly lighter sentence.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the implications for both Morris and Gateway Church are profound. The church, known for its large congregation and influence, now faces the challenge of rebuilding trust within its community while dealing with the fallout from these allegations.
For more updates on this developing story, stay tuned to trusted news sources and consider following organizations that advocate for survivors of abuse. It’s crucial to support those who have bravely come forward with their stories, as they navigate the often difficult journey toward healing and justice.