Texas megachurch founder and former Trump adviser pleads guilty to child sex abuse charges.
The founder of a prominent Texas megachurch and former spiritual adviser to President Donald Trump has accepted a guilty plea in connection with multiple counts of lewd and indecent acts involving a child. Robert Morris, aged 64, entered his plea on Thursday, acknowledging five counts related to allegations that he sexually abused a young girl during the 1980s. The details surrounding the case reveal a troubling history of abuse that has emerged decades after the incidents reportedly occurred.
According to statements released by the Oklahoma Attorney General’s office, the abuse is said to have commenced in 1982 when the victim, identified as Cindy Clemishire, was merely 12 years old. Morris, then a traveling evangelist, is accused of exploiting his role while staying with Clemishire’s family in Hominy, Oklahoma. The allegations suggest that the abuse continued for a span of four years.
Morris, who stepped down from his position as senior pastor at Gateway Church in Southlake, Texas, in 2022, faced indictment from an Oklahoma grand jury in the previous year. His plea agreement stipulates a 10-year suspended sentence, with the initial six months mandated to be served in the Osage County Jail. Additionally, he is required to register as a sex offender and will be monitored by Texas authorities in accordance with interstate compact regulations. The court has also ordered Morris to cover the costs of his incarceration, including any related medical expenses, as well as restitution to the victim.
Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond emphasized the gravity of the situation, condemning the actions of Morris as particularly egregious given his position of trust and authority. The attorney general stated that there must be strong consequences for individuals who engage in the sexual exploitation of children.
Cindy Clemishire, now 55, articulated her feelings about the case in a public statement, declaring that justice has finally been served. She expressed hopes that her story would inspire other victims to come forward and advocate for stronger protection laws for children and victims’ rights. Clemishire urged the public to recognize the necessity of speaking out against suspected or known instances of child sexual abuse.
Gateway Church was founded by Morris in the year 2000. Throughout his career, he has been involved in political circles and played a role on Trump’s evangelical advisory board. Notably, the church hosted President Trump in 2020, marking an event focused on discussions around race relations and the economy. As the legal proceedings conclude, the implications of this case will resonate beyond the courtroom, influencing conversations about accountability and protection for vulnerable individuals in religious and community leadership.
Media News Source
