OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA – A former pastor of a Texas megachurch accused of child sexual abuse surrendered to Oklahoma authorities on Monday. Robert Preston Morris, 63, turned himself in to officials in Osage County after being charged with five counts of lewd or indecent acts with a child. An Osage County judge set a $50,000 bond for Morris and ordered him to surrender his passport. Morris is scheduled to appear before a judge on May 9.
Morris resigned as pastor of Gateway Church in Southlake, Texas last year after allegations of sexual abuse surfaced. The victim, identified as C.C. in the indictment, recounted that the abuse began when she was 12 years old and continued for four years. Cindy Clemishire, the accuser, expressed gratitude to authorities for pursuing the case and hopes for justice to prevail. Clemishire, now 55, stated, “After almost 43 years, the law has finally caught up with Robert Morris for the horrific crimes he committed against me as a child. Now, it is time for the legal system to hold him accountable.”
Attorney Mack Martin, representing Morris, declined to comment on the charges but indicated that a not guilty plea is anticipated. Morris, known for his political involvement, could face up to 20 years in prison for each of the five charges. The church he led even hosted former President Donald Trump for a discussion on race relations and the economy in 2020.
The case against Morris brings to light the issue of sexual abuse within religious institutions, raising concerns about the safety of children in such environments. Survivors of abuse like Clemishire are speaking out, seeking justice and accountability for offenders. The legal proceedings following Morris’ surrender demonstrate a step towards holding perpetrators of abuse responsible for their actions. As the case unfolds in court, it underscores the importance of bringing awareness to instances of child sexual abuse and ensuring that justice is served for victims.