Former Gateway Church pastor Robert Morris has been released from the Osage County Jail after serving a six-month sentence for child sex abuse charges.
Morris, who founded the largest church in America, was removed from his position after it was discovered that he had sexually abused Cindy Clemishire when she was just 12 years old. It was later revealed that several church elders knew about the molestation, with the church itself and many of its leaders now facing civil litigation from Clemishire.
Morris, 64, was released from jail in the middle of the night. He have to serve nearly 10 years of probation and will spend the rest of his life on the sex offender registry.
Despite his legal troubles, Morris is also suing Gateway Church, claiming its elders verbally promised him a lucrative retirement package: $1 million upfront, $800,000 annually until he turns 70, and then $600,000 per year thereafter until both he and his wife pass away, with payments continuing to the surviving spouse. If either lives into their early 80s, the total could approach $16 million.
Clemishire said of Morris’ release:
“Today marks another chapter in a long journey. While his release is part of the legal process, my focus remains on the truth that was finally brought into the light. I am deeply grateful to Oklahoma AG Gentner Drummond, District Attorney Gayland Gieger, investigator Kylie Turner, and every individual who worked tirelessly to pursue justice. I’m also incredibly thankful for the unwavering support of my family, friends, and community. I will continue to stand for truth, for justice, and for every survivor who is still finding their voice.”
It is expected that Morris will launch a new ministry sometime later this year.
