Robert Morris, the founder of Gateway Church in Texas and once one of the most influential megachurch pastors in the United States, pleaded guilty Thursday to multiple child sex abuse charges stemming from the 1980s. The shocking admission marks the conclusion of a decades-long battle for justice by survivor Cindy Clemishire, who came forward publicly to expose the abuse.

What Did Robert Morris Plead Guilty To?

The 64-year-old pastor admitted guilt to five counts of lewd and indecent acts with a child in Osage County, Oklahoma. The abuse began in 1982, when Clemishire was just 12 years old, and continued for over four years while Morris was a traveling evangelist staying with her family.

As part of a plea deal, Morris was sentenced to a 10-year suspended sentence, with the first six months to be served in jail. He will also be required to register as a sex offender, pay for his incarceration costs, and provide restitution to the victim.

Survivor Speaks: “Justice Has Finally Been Served”

Now 55, Clemishire delivered a powerful statement following the court’s decision:

“Justice has finally been served, and the man who manipulated, groomed and abused me as a 12-year-old innocent girl is finally going to be behind bars.”

She added that her hope is for other victims of abuse to come forward, find their voice, and help ensure stronger protections for children.

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Gateway Church and Morris’ Legacy

Morris founded Gateway Church in Southlake, Texas, in 2000, building it into one of the largest megachurches in the country with tens of thousands of members. The church had long been a hub for evangelical influence, even hosting Donald Trump in 2020 during his presidency for a discussion on race and the economy.

Morris resigned from Gateway in 2024 after the abuse allegations resurfaced, sparking major backlash and membership losses. The church has declined to comment on the latest conviction.

Legal and Public Response

Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond condemned Morris’ actions, calling the abuse “despicable” given his role as a trusted religious leader.

“There can be no tolerance for those who sexually prey on children,” Drummond said. “This case is all the more despicable because the perpetrator was a pastor who exploited his position of trust and authority.”

Morris’ attorney, Bill Mateja, stated that the pastor wanted to accept responsibility “in the eyes of the law” and bring closure to all parties involved.

What Happens Next for Robert Morris?

Morris will serve six months in Osage County Jail, after which he will remain under supervision in Texas. His name will be added to the sex offender registry, and he will live under long-term restrictions.

For Clemishire and many advocates, the guilty plea represents more than punishment, it is a victory for truth, accountability, and a reminder of the urgent need to confront abuse within religious institutions.

FAQ

Q1: Who is Robert Morris?

Robert Morris is the founder of Gateway Church in Southlake, Texas, one of the largest megachurches in the U.S. He was also a former member of Donald Trump’s evangelical advisory board.

Q2: What did Robert Morris plead guilty to?

Morris pleaded guilty to five counts of lewd and indecent acts with a child in Osage County, Oklahoma. The abuse involved a girl named Cindy Clemishire, starting when she was 12 years old.

Q3: How long will Robert Morris serve in jail?

Under the plea deal, Morris received a 10-year suspended sentence, with the first six months served in Osage County Jail.

Q4: Who is the victim in the Robert Morris case?

The victim is Cindy Clemishire, who came forward publicly. She was 12 years old when Morris, then in his 20s, began abusing her.

Q5: Will Robert Morris be registered as a sex offender?

Yes. Morris is required to register as a sex offender and will be supervised by Texas authorities after his release.

Q6: What has Gateway Church said about Robert Morris’ guilty plea?

As of now, Gateway Church has declined to comment on Morris’ guilty plea. The church faced turmoil and declining membership after his resignation in 2024.

Q7: Why did Robert Morris resign from Gateway Church?

He resigned in 2024 after the abuse allegations resurfaced, sparking a crisis within the megachurch and widespread public backlash.

Q8: What role did Robert Morris have in politics?

Morris served on Donald Trump’s evangelical advisory board and hosted the former president at Gateway Church in 2020 for a public forum.

Q9: What happens next for Robert Morris legally?

After serving six months in jail, Morris will remain under supervision, be on the sex offender registry, and must pay restitution to the victim.

Q10: What does this case mean for the wider church community?

The case highlights the need for greater transparency, accountability, and child protection measures in religious institutions, as survivors call for reforms.