Last week pastor Shawn Anthony Justice voluntarily returned to Alaska from Georgia to face charges he raped a 15-year-old girl. He faces 12 counts of second-degree sexual abuse of a minor. He could face 10 years in prison if convicted.
Pastor Justice pleaded not guilty. Superior Court Judge Michael McConahy disregarded the advice of Prosecutor Gayle Garrigues, who asserted that pastor justice is a flight risk because of his past behavior and therefore requires a bond. The judge released pastor Justice without bond to a retired nurse named Evelyn Gibson with the stipulation that he not use the internet or a cell phone. Yeah, that will work.
I like to think that I am evidence based in my thinking. The evidence in this case show that pastor Justice fled Alaska when investigators started looking into his case. He came back only after an arrest warrant was issued. He stands accused of a serious felony involving sexual misconduct with a child. Accused rapists are not normally allowed to walk away without posting a bond. I assert that pastor Justice was given preferential treatment because of his religious profession. Shame on you Judge McConahy.
Pastor Justice was terminated by the Corinthian Baptist Church prior to the alleged crimes. He met the girl at the church.
Fairbanks police believe Justice met the 15-year-old victim while he was pastor. Detective Peyton Merideth said Justice initially engaged in suspicious activity with the girl, including sending inappropriate text messages at church functions.
My prediction… another Baptist pastor is on his way to experiencing life as a prison bitch. Check him out in action and see if you agree with me.
