A former pastor in Columbus, Ohio, aged 73, has pleaded guilty to rape charges involving a minor and has been sentenced to 15–20 years in prison, according to court records and media reports.
The man, George Bell, previously led Anchor Baptist Church, a congregation he founded in 1989. Investigators say the offenses occurred between 2021 and 2024, and the victim was under nine years old at the time of the crimes.
Details of the Case
- Bell entered a plea agreement in which he admitted to two counts of first-degree felony rape, while other charges (including additional rape and gross sexual imposition counts) were dropped.
- His prison term was imposed consecutively: 10–15 years for one count and five years for the other, bringing the total to 15–20 years.
- Following his release, he will be required to register as a Tier III sex offender, which involves ongoing reporting and supervision.
Impact on the Church and Community
Bell pastored at Anchor Baptist Church until his resignation in mid-2024. According to church leadership, his resignation was initially framed as due to “personal reasons,” and the congregation was reportedly not informed of the investigation at that time.
The conviction has caused deep shock and dismay within both the church community and the wider faith-based world. Such a breach of trust by a spiritual leader—especially involving a child—has raised urgent questions about church accountability, child protection policies, and how congregations vet and oversee their pastors.
Lessons for Pastors & Church Leaders
This case serves as a stark reminder of several critical issues:
- Vetting and Oversight
Churches must prioritize rigorous background checks, ongoing accountability, and transparent leadership structures. - Child Protection Policies
It is essential for congregations to have clear, enforced safeguarding policies—including for children and youth. - Pastoral Integrity
Senior leaders must model moral behavior, but also be held accountable when they sin. The damage of such betrayals is profound. - Support for Survivors
Churches should offer pastoral care, counseling, and meaningful support for survivors of abuse. - Legal and Spiritual Responsibility
The faith community has a duty both to support civil justice and to press for internal reform, ensuring that churches are safe places for all, especially the most vulnerable.
Call to Prayer
PastorsInfo calls on Christians and church communities to pray for:
- The victim, for healing, justice, and long-term care.
- The former congregation of Anchor Baptist Church, for wisdom, restoration, and truth.
- Church leaders, to lead with humility, accountability, and renewed commitment to safeguarding.
- Legal authorities, that they would continue enforcing justice and protecting children.
Sources
- MinistryWatch report on George Bell’s plea and sentence (MinistryWatch)
- NBC4 / WCMH-TV coverage of the case (Yahoo)