HAMMOND (IN)
Associated Baptist Press
Thursday, August 2, 2012
A prominent Independent Fundamental Baptist church is in the spotlight for sexual scandal, and it isn’t the first time.
By Bob Allen
An Indiana sheriff’s office is investigating a prominent independent Baptist pastor fired from his 15,000-member mega church for alleged sexual misconduct with an underage girl.
First Baptist Church in Hammond, Ind., posted a news release on the church website announcing dismissal of Pastor Jack Schaap “due to a sin that has caused him to forfeit his right to be our pastor.”
The Lake County Sheriff’s Department in Crown Point, Ind., released a statement confirming an inquiry that involves “alleged misconduct with a juvenile.”
The Hammond Post-Tribune quoted a church leader saying they are cooperating with police, but don’t expect any charges to be filed because the girl is 17. Sixteen is the age of consent in Indiana.
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