Sanford Rabbi Accused of Molesting 15-year-old Girl, Police Say
By Michael Williams
A Sanford rabbi is accused of molesting and impregnating a 15-year-old girl who lived in his custody, according to the Sanford Police Department. On March 31, authorities say, they began investigating Lloyd Haughton — a rabbi affiliated with Synagogue Beth Israel in Sanford, a Messianic congregation — after the victim told police that Haughton had been molesting her for the past two years. Messianic Jews are not recognized as Jewish by mainstream Judaism, but rather as Christians. They believe Jesus is the Messiah — a concept antithetical to Judaism — but incorporate Jewish holidays and prayer into their observances. On April 25, the victim’s mother told police that the 15-year-old was pregnant by Haughton, police said. A blood test confirmed that Haughton was the father. Police arrested Haughton on Wednesday and charged him with sexual battery. His picture was removed from the group’s website Thursday morning. The head rabbi at the congregation, Gary Fernandez, could not be reached for comment. “It is always disheartening when people in positions of authority violate and abuse the trust that is bestowed upon them,” said Sanford Police Chief Cecil Smith. “I hope the congregation and community can come together to heal and repair the trust that has been shattered.” Michael Williams can be reached at miwilliams@orlandosentinel.com or 407-420-5022
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