North Texas Megachurch Founder Indicted on Multiple Counts of Child Abuse
The founder of a North Texas megachurch has been indicted on multiple counts of indecent acts with a child, with allegations dating back more than four decades.
According to the indictment, the abuse began around Christmas Day in 1982. Court documents state that Robert Morris “intentionally touched or felt with his hand… the body or private parts” of a 12-year-old identified as C.C. While the victim’s name is not explicitly mentioned, the initials, timeline, and details closely align with allegations previously made by Cindy Clemishire.
Clemishire, who publicly shared her story in June, has accused Morris of repeatedly molesting her during her childhood in Oklahoma. At the time, Morris was a traveling preacher who frequently stayed at Clemishire’s home.
The indictment details additional alleged incidents in January 1983 and 1985. Court documents indicate that the abuse escalated when the victim was 13 or 14 years old, describing instances in which Morris “removed her clothing and rubbed his clothed body against hers” while inside a parked car.
Victim and Authorities Respond
Clemishire welcomed the indictment, calling it a long-overdue step toward justice.
“After almost 43 years, the law has finally caught up with Robert Morris for the horrific crimes he committed against me as a child,” she said in a statement through her attorney. “Now, it is time for the legal system to hold him accountable. My family and I are deeply grateful to the authorities who have worked tirelessly to make this day possible and remain hopeful that justice will ultimately prevail.”
A spokesperson for Gateway Church, which Morris founded, emphasized the importance of accountability.
“We are grateful that the justice system is holding abusers accountable,” the church said in a statement.
Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond also weighed in, condemning the alleged actions.
“There can be no tolerance for those who sexually prey on children,” Drummond said. “This case is all the more despicable because the alleged perpetrator was a pastor who exploited his position. The victim in this case has waited far too many years for justice to be done.”
FOX 4 attempted to contact Morris at a number registered in his name, but calls were not answered or returned.
Church Leadership Under Scrutiny
Morris resigned from Gateway Church in June after Clemishire’s allegations became public. She has stated that she raised concerns multiple times with the church’s board of elders. However, when the allegations surfaced publicly, the board claimed they were unaware that the victim in question may have been as young as 12.
In November, the church announced that several elders had been dismissed, and staff members who had prior knowledge of the claims would not be eligible to serve as elders in the future.
As legal proceedings move forward, advocates emphasize the significance of accountability, particularly when abuse allegations involve religious leaders entrusted with the care of others.