UPDATE: In a shocking turn of events, Robert Morris, the founder of Gateway Church, has pleaded guilty to charges of indecent conduct with a child. The plea was entered during a hearing in Osage County, Oklahoma, on July 13, 2023, marking a significant moment in a case that has drawn national attention.
Morris, who previously maintained his innocence, was sentenced to 10 years in prison, with all but six months suspended. Following his time in prison, he will serve nine and a half years on probation in Texas and is required to register as a sex offender. This case stems from allegations of sexual abuse against a young girl over 40 years ago, beginning in 1982 when Morris was a traveling evangelist.
The courtroom was filled with emotion as Morris arrived, accompanied by his family, including his wife and adult children. Meanwhile, Texas State Rep. Jeff Leach, known for his advocacy against child sexual abuse, expressed his support ahead of the hearing, stating, “Roll the stone away. Let the guilty pay. It’s Independence Day.”
In a powerful statement, Cindy Clemishire, the victim who was just 12 years old when the abuse began, declared, “Today justice has finally been served.” She hopes her experience will empower other victims to speak out and encourages legislative changes for better protection of children’s rights.
Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond echoed this sentiment, emphasizing, “There can be no tolerance for those who sexually prey on children.” He described the case as particularly egregious due to Morris’s position of trust as a pastor.
The abuse allegations first surfaced in 2024, prompting swift action from Gateway Church, which initially denied the claims but later accepted Morris’s resignation on June 18, 2024. Clemishire, who believes she is not the only victim, expressed disappointment that the church allowed Morris to resign rather than terminating him.
The fallout from this case is far-reaching. Clemishire, along with her father, has filed a civil lawsuit against Morris, seeking $1 million in damages. The lawsuit alleges that church leaders were aware of Morris’s actions and profited from his abuses, contributing to a culture of silence.
In addition to the criminal case, Morris is embroiled in a separate legal dispute with Gateway Church over millions of dollars he claims are owed from his retirement package. A federal class-action lawsuit has also been filed against the church, accusing it of failing to honor financial commitments to global missions and misleading congregants regarding refunds.
As the church grapples with the scandal, it has faced financial difficulties, leading to staff layoffs. In September, Daniel Floyd was appointed as the new lead pastor, promising to restore integrity to the church’s leadership.
This ongoing saga highlights the urgent need for accountability and support for victims of abuse. As more details unfold, the community watches closely, hoping for justice and a safer environment for all.
