Watauga, FL – A North Texas pastor faces serious charges following his arrest on Thursday. Johel LaFaurie, 65, the lead pastor at Iglesia Cristiana Verdad Viviente in Watauga, was charged with continuous sexual abuse of a young child, according to Tarrant County court records.
North Texas Pastor Arrested for Child Sexual Abuse
The charge stems from allegations of sexual abuse against a child under 14 years old, occurring multiple times within a 30-day period. LaFaurie has not responded to requests for comment on the accusations.
Second North Texas Pastor Facing Abuse Allegations
This arrest comes on the heels of another case involving a North Texas pastor. On January 6, Jerry Nickerson, a pastor at Hope Fellowship Church in Frisco, was fired after admitting to “inappropriate contact with a minor” during his time as a volunteer youth leader at a previous church.
To learn more about Jerry Nickerson:
Legal Pathways for Pastoral Abuse Survivors
In the wake of recent pastoral sexual abuse cases in North Texas, many survivors and their families find themselves grappling with complex emotions and uncertain futures. To help navigate the legal landscape surrounding these sensitive issues, we spoke with Anjali Nigam, a seasoned Texas attorney specializing in sexual abuse cases. Nigam offers valuable information on the rights of survivors, the potential for civil action against negligent religious organizations, and recent changes in Texas law that impact these cases. Her insights provide a roadmap for those seeking to understand their legal options and the process of holding abusers and enablers accountable.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: What legal rights do victims of sexual abuse by pastors have in Texas?
Anjali Nigam, Esq.: Victims of pastoral sexual abuse in Texas have the right to pursue both criminal and civil cases. In civil lawsuits, victims can seek compensation not only from the abuser but also from the church or religious organization that may have been negligent in supervising the pastor or failing to protect congregants.
Banville: How can victims hold churches or religious organizations accountable?
Nigam: Churches can be held liable under the theory of negligent supervision. If a religious organization knew or should have known about a pastor’s dangerous behavior and failed to take appropriate action, they may be found negligent. This could include failing to properly screen employees, ignoring previous complaints, or not implementing adequate safeguards to protect congregants.
Banville: What advice would you give to survivors considering legal action?
Nigam: I would urge survivors to speak with an experienced attorney as soon as possible. Even if they think the statute of limitations has expired, there may be exceptions or new laws that could apply to their case. Additionally, preserving evidence and documenting their experiences can be crucial for building a strong case.
Empowering Survivors: Your Path to Justice Starts Here
The journey to healing and justice for survivors of pastoral sexual abuse can be challenging, but you don’t have to walk it alone. If you or a loved one has experienced sexual abuse by a pastor or church leader, remember that legal options are available to hold perpetrators and negligent institutions accountable. Our team of compassionate and experienced attorneys is ready to listen to your story and provide guidance on your potential case. Don’t let uncertainty or fear prevent you from exploring your rights. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation. Your voice matters, and we’re here to help you use it to seek the justice and compensation you deserve.
Source:
Mr. Banville is a personal injury attorney who has experience in handling auto accidents, work injuries, medical malpractice, dog bites, slip and falls, and representing survivors and victims of sexual abuse. Mr. Banville is affiliated with law firms in Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, D.C., and Maryland. Abuse Guardian
