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A grand jury in Oklahoma has indicted Robert Morris, a former televangelist and founder of the Texas-based Gateway Church, on child sexual abuse charges stemming from incidents that allegedly occurred in the 1980s. The indictment accuses Morris of committing five counts of lewd or indecent acts with a child, according to the Oklahoma Attorney General’s office, News Nation reported.
Morris, 63, resigned from his role as senior pastor of Gateway Church in 2024 following allegations made by Cindy Clemishire, who claims he sexually abused her starting in 1982. At the time of the alleged abuse, Morris was staying with Clemishire’s family in Hominy, Oklahoma. The charges mark a significant legal development in a case that has remained unresolved for decades.
Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond emphasized the gravity of the allegations, stating, “There can be no tolerance for those who sexually prey on children. 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.”
Morris founded Gateway Church in 2000 in Southlake, Texas, a suburb of Dallas. The church has since grown into one of the largest megachurches in the United States, with a significant following and influence in evangelical circles. In response to the indictment, the church issued a statement acknowledging the seriousness of the allegations and expressing support for all those affected by the situation. “Our prayers are with Cindy Clemishire and all of those impacted by this terrible situation,” the statement read.
Morris has been a prominent figure in evangelical Christianity and previously served as a spiritual adviser to former President Donald Trump. During Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign, Morris was named to the evangelical advisory board. He later hosted Trump at Gateway Church’s Dallas campus in 2020 during a visit that included a fundraising event.
In the wake of the Gateway Church sexual assault reports, many of its worshippers have flocked to other congregations. In October 2024, former congregation members filed for a class action lawsuit seeking tithing and donation refunds. That same month, Gateway Church was also sued over a sexual assault claim that occurred in a youth group. And just weeks later, four elders of the church were removed over the alleged sexual misconduct of Morris.
The indictment against Morris underscores broader concerns about abuse within religious institutions and the challenges survivors face in seeking justice. Survivors of clergy abuse often experience significant barriers to holding perpetrators accountable, including institutional cover-ups and expired statutes of limitations. However, with legal authorities taking action in this case, advocates hope it signals a continued effort to pursue justice for survivors of abuse, regardless of when the crimes occurred.
For survivors of sexual abuse, resources and support are available. If you or someone you know needs help, contact the Childhelp abuse hotline at 800-422-4453 or visit ascasupport.org for assistance.
