A 44-year-old pastor from Glen View has been convicted of indecent assault after sexually abusing a 19-year-old congregant under the guise of church duties.
The man appeared before the Mbare Magistrates Court, where he was sentenced to 12 months’ imprisonment. Three months of the sentence were suspended for five years on condition of good behaviour, leaving him to serve an effective nine months behind bars.
The court heard that on December 8, 2025, at around 10:30am, the offender requested permission from the victim’s mother for the teenager to assist him with cleaning duties at the church.
Prosecutors said that upon arrival at the premises, the pastor hugged the victim before beginning to touch her inappropriately.
Related Stories
Despite the victim asking him to stop, the offender allegedly continued to fondle her breasts and private parts while professing his affection for her.
The situation escalated when the pastor allegedly forced the victim to touch his private parts. The court heard that the victim broke down in tears and repeatedly pleaded with him to stop.
The assault was interrupted after someone knocked on the church door, forcing the offender to stop.
Following the incident, the victim reported the matter to her mother, which led to the pastor’s arrest and subsequent prosecution.
The court convicted him of indecent assault, emphasising the abuse of trust involved in the offence.
Leave Comments