HOT SPRINGS (AR)
The Sentinel Record [Hot Springs, AR]
September 25, 2025
By Steven Mross
A Hot Springs pastor was arrested Wednesday evening on a felony sexual assault charge involving a 17-year-old female member of his church, whom he allegedly “inappropriately touched” on more than one occasion, according to a news release.
Macario Garcia, 54, who lists a Squire Court address, was taken into custody shortly after 6 p.m. Wednesday and charged with second-degree sexual assault, a felony punishable by up to 20 years in prison.
He was released on a $50,000 bond shortly before 11:30 p.m. Wednesday with a court date to be set. According to court records, Garcia lists no prior criminal history other than traffic offenses.
Garcia was arrested “after a lengthy investigation” led by the Garland County Sheriff’s Criminal Investigations Division with assistance from the 18th Judicial Prosecuting Attorney’s office, Sheriff Mike McCormick said in the release.
“The charges stem from an incident involving a 17-year-old female where Mr. Garcia, her pastor, is alleged to have inappropriately touched her on more than one occasion. A probable cause affidavit was filed and a subsequent warrant of arrest was issued for Mr. Garcia,” the release said.
“I want the citizens to know that as your Sheriff, I, along with Prosecuting Attorney Michelle Lawrence, will not tolerate this type behavior and justice will be swift. It is our duty to ensure that the citizens, and visitors of this county feel protected at all times,” McCormick said.
The church was identified as the Living River Church, located in the 5700 block of Central Avenue.