Tallahassee, FL – The Leon County Sheriff’s Office announced that 40-year-old Terrance Booker, a youth director at a Tallahassee church and assistant director of W.T. Moore Elementary School’s extended day program, has been arrested and charged in connection with the sexual assault of a juvenile male church member.
Tallahassee Youth Director and Elementary School Employee Accused of Sexual Assault
According to deputies, Booker is accused of sexually molesting a boy from his church youth group at Life Changers Church of God.
Leon County Sheriff’s Office Confirms Arrest of Local Tallahassee Youth Director
Booker was taken into custody and appeared at the Leon County Courthouse on Friday. A judge set his bond at $35,000 and ordered him to have no contact with children or the church where the incident occurred. Court and jail records show Booker posted bond later that afternoon.
During the first court hearing, the state attorney’s office pointed to similarities between the current case and a 2020 investigation involving similar claims at the same church. That earlier probe ended without charges due to insufficient evidence. Prosecutors described the new allegations as “remarkably similar and very concerning.”
The mother of one alleged victim spoke during the hearing, stating that her son is struggling with fear and sleepless nights because of Booker.
School Response and Administrative Action After Allegations of Sexual Abuse
According to the W.T. Moore Elementary School website, Booker served as assistant director of the after-school program. Principal William Millard told parents, staff, and teachers in an email that Booker self-reported he was under investigation on Tuesday.
The following morning, Booker was placed on administrative leave. Millard emphasized that the safety of students remains the top priority, explaining:
“That is why we took the steps to place Mr. Booker on leave when we did and why I am informing you of this situation. I will communicate any additional information that is pertinent to our school community when and if it becomes available.”
Ongoing Investigation
The Leon County Sheriff’s Office said that last month, investigators reopened the case after new allegations surfaced. Deputies stated they found evidence supporting charges in both the 2020 and 2025 cases. Booker now faces counts of lewd and lascivious battery and two counts of lewd and lascivious molestation.
Authorities have not determined whether additional incidents may have taken place at the church or the school. They are urging anyone with information to contact the sheriff’s office at (850) 606-3300 or to come forward in person.
Legal Recourse for Victims of Sexual Abuse by Church Youth Pastors
When allegations of sexual abuse surface within places of worship, families are often left asking what protections the law provides and where they can turn for justice. To help explain the legal options available for victims harmed by a youth pastor or church staff member, attorney Laurence Banville sat down with Florida sexual abuse lawyer Michael Haggard. Their discussion outlines how both the criminal courts and civil system can play a role in holding abusers—and the institutions that allowed them access to children—accountable.
Laurence Banville (Attorney): When someone is abused by a youth pastor or church leader here in Florida, what legal options might be available to the victims and their families?
Michael Haggard (Florida Sexual Abuse Lawyer): The first step is always the criminal process, and that begins when law enforcement investigates and prosecutors file charges, as we’re seeing in this case. But beyond the criminal court, victims also have the right to bring a civil action. That can be against the individual abuser and, in some cases, the church or institution if it failed to protect children or ignored warning signs.
Banville: So parents who believe their child has been harmed at a church or similar program can actually hold the institution accountable, not just the individual?
Haggard: Correct. If the church knew or should have known that the individual posed a risk but allowed him to continue working with children, then the law allows victims to file lawsuits for damages. These cases can cover therapy costs, long-term care, and compensation for the trauma endured.
Banville: Does Florida law provide enough time for survivors to come forward?
Haggard: Florida has extended statutes of limitations in child sexual abuse cases, recognizing that many survivors don’t disclose what happened until years later. That being said, it’s always better for families to reach out to an attorney as soon as possible to preserve evidence and strengthen their case.
Support Is Available for Survivors and Families
No family should face the aftermath of sexual abuse alone. If you or someone you love has been harmed by a church leader or youth pastor, legal help is available. Our team is committed to guiding survivors through both the criminal and civil process and holding those responsible accountable. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation to discuss your options and protect your family’s rights.
Source
https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/tallahassee-church-youth-director-school-215250668.html
