CORAL SPRINGS, Fla. — A Florida Baptist church known for its sometimes-provocative efforts to entice first-time visitors is receiving unwanted attention after the arrest of a staff member on molestation charges. The Coral Springs Police Department arrested Russell Dion Lewis, 28, Nov. 21, on one count of custodial sexual battery and 10 counts of lewd and lascivious molestation. If convicted he could receive up to 15 years of prison.
Police believe Lewis, a worship leader and assistant youth minister at 4,800-member Church by the Glades in Coral Springs, Fla., was involved in a five-month relationship with a 14-year-old girl. While authorities say the acts were consensual, in Florida a 14-year-old cannot legally consent to sex.
Tom Albright, executive pastor of the prominent Southern Baptist church, said upon learning of the allegations church leaders immediately dismissed Lewis for “gross misconduct.” He said the church offered counseling to anyone on the staff or in the congregation needing it and is cooperating with authorities in ongoing investigations.
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