Gateway Church Founder Robert Morris Pleads Guilty to Child Sex Abuse

Robert Morris, the founder of Gateway Church in Texas, has pleaded guilty to child sex abuse charges stemming from incidents that occurred over 30 years ago. Morris, 64, pleaded guilty to five counts of lewd or indecent acts with a child, according to reports from the courtroom.

The Abuse
The abuse began in 1982 when Morris, then a traveling evangelist, met his victim, Cindy Clemishire, at her family home in Hominy, Oklahoma. Clemishire was just 12 years old at the time, and the abuse continued for four years, escalating to attempted intercourse. Morris was married and in his 20s during the time of the abuse.

The Verdict
Under the plea agreement, Morris received a 10-year suspended sentence, with the first six months to be served in the Osage County Jail. He must also register as a sex offender and will be supervised by Texas authorities. Additionally, Morris will pay restitution to Clemishire, totaling $270,000.

Clemishire’s Statement
In her victim

impact statement, Clemishire said, “Today is a new beginning for me, my family, and friends who have been by my side through this horrendous journey. I leave this courtroom today not as a victim, but a survivor.” She added that she hoped her story would help other victims find the courage to speak up and advocate for changes in laws to better protect children and victims’ rights.

Gateway Church’s Response
Following Clemishire’s disclosure last year, Gateway Church removed four elders for knowing about Morris’s abuse and failing to act. The church also faced a lawsuit alleging the fraudulent use of congregants’ tithes, which a federal judge recently allowed to proceed. Clemishire is also pursuing a civil case against the church.