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Former pastor Robert Morris released from prison after child abuse conviction

Mar 31, 2026, 9:43 PM20
(Update: Mar 31, 2026, 10:44 PM)
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Former pastor Robert Morris released from prison after child abuse conviction

  • Robert Preston Morris, a notable megachurch founder, pled guilty to child sexual abuse and served six months in jail.
  • His release comes after facing serious legal repercussions, including a lengthy probation and registration as a sex offender.
  • Morris's case has sparked discussions regarding accountability in religious institutions and the ongoing fight for justice by victims.
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In Oklahoma City, Robert Preston Morris, a 64-year-old pastor and founder of the Texas-based megachurch Gateway Church, was recently released from jail after serving six months. His incarceration was a consequence of pleading guilty to five counts of lewd or indecent acts with a child as part of a plea agreement concerning abuse that began in 1982 when the victim, Cindy Clemishire, was only twelve years old. Morris, who had once been an influential figure sitting on Donald Trump's evangelical advisory board, has since expressed remorse for his actions. The abuse occurred while Morris was a traveling evangelist, and the case came to light decades later, leading to his indictment by an Oklahoma grand jury in 2024. As detailed by Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond, the actions taken by Morris reflect a betrayal of trust, particularly as he held a position of authority within the church community. Morris had faced the legal consequences of his actions, receiving a suspended ten-year sentence, with half served in jail and the rest on probation, as well as the requirement to register as a sex offender for life. Cindy Clemishire publicly accused Morris of the abuse, stating initially in 2024 that justice has finally been served with his sentencing. Her attorney, Jeff Leach, highlighted the ongoing legal efforts Clemishire intends to pursue against not just Morris but also individuals within the church who had allegedly covered for him during the allegations. Morris's release does not signify the end of this situation, as he faces significant legal supervision moving forward. Public reactions have been mixed, with some expressing outrage at the leniency of Morris's sentence, while others lean toward forgiveness, as Morris's representatives outlined his apology. This unfolding narrative raises critical questions about accountability in religious institutions, particularly regarding the handling of sexual abuse allegations and the support systems in place for victims.

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