Hearing pushed for Tulsa megachurch abuse suspect

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October 23, 2012

Hearing pushed for Tulsa megachurch abuse suspect

Anonymous From The Associated Press The Enid News and Eagle Tue Oct 23, 2012, 10:02 AM CDT

TULSA, Okla. — Prosecutors say there may be more victims or witnesses coming forth in an investigation of alleged sex crimes at a Tulsa megachurch.

Former Victory Christian Center employee Israel Castillo is charged with making a lewd proposal to a 15-year-old girl and using a computer to commit a sex crime. A hearing Tuesday for Castillo was delayed after Assistant District Attorney Kali Strain told the judge police are investigating the prospect of more victims or witnesses in the case.

The hearing was pushed to Nov. 29.

The 23-year-old Castillo has pleaded not guilty and is free on bond. Another former church worker is also charged.

Five employees of the 17,000-member church face misdemeanor charges for waiting two weeks to tell authorities of a 13-year-old’s alleged rape. Each has pleaded not guilty.

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