I have been a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for 52 years. Former Bishop, High Counselor, Temple Worker, Security Supervisor for the Church.
I was convicted of Aggravated Sexual Assault of a 14-year-old girl in 2003. Served 10 years in the Texas Department of Corrections. Released in 2013 as a low-risk registered citizen and required to register for life.
I was excommunicated from the Church in 2003. Welcomed to attend church in Texas immediately. No restrictions. Rebaptized in 2015. Welcomed to attend the Uvalde Texas Ward, Belle Glade Florida Branch, and Lehigh Acres Florida Ward. No restrictions. I attended the Fort Lauderdale, Florida Temple regularly.
I was accused falsely of a new sexual offense and arrested in July 2022. Extradited back to Texas from Florida and now out on bond in Uvalde Texas.
The church legal counsel of Kirton McConkie in Salt Lake City, Utah directed the District President and Branch President to deliver a letter barring me from all properties of the Church, throughout the World. The same Branch that I was previously welcomed and baptized in. I have not been excommunicated, however, my valid Temple recommend has been terminated. I am also barred from any communication with members of the Church. In 1 year I am up for re-evaluation as to my risk.
In essence, I am guilty until proven innocent, backed by the Uvalde Branch President, District President, the Southwest Area Presidency, and the San Antonio Texas Temple President. My former Stake President and Bishop have condemned the actions of the Leadership here but can do nothing for me.
My case should be dismissed in November. I have a solid alibi for the date of the offense.
I left Texas on 12/29/2019 and have not returned until brought back in chains. Full and complete documentation and witnesses can attest to the fact.
District President Ross Davidson stated that the sanctions would remain because I am still a risk.
I present this to you in the narrative because my emotions of abandonment, betrayal and severe depression are overwhelming. I would ask that those similarly treated by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints come forth in affirmation. If you are a member and have not been treated, in this manner, I would also like to hear from you.
Best Wishes,
Former Bishop of the Church
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I share a similar expierence. I’m Catholic. I hold no positions . I volunteer to take care of the grounds, pick up trash, and general labor. After all the scandels about priest behavior, anyone volunteering to do any activities in the Church must complete a training and pass a background check. since I had a plea bargain, misdomenor charge, SIS (Not supposed to be a conviction if I met requirements). I did the course for volunteering, and I was informed that I didn’t pass the background check. Consequently, I was banned from doing any and all activities that are Church related. I don’t know if this helps what you’re trying to accomplish. However, this banishment policy is in almost all religion communities. I did find a Parish that might let me do something. I’ll still have restrictions, Some call this selective redemption.