FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. (WSVN) - A Deerfield Beach pastor is facing some serious charges after, police said, he fondled a 15-year-old boy after taking the victim shopping for school supplies.
Maurice Lyn, the pastor at Deerfield Beach Church of God of Prophecy, appeared in bond court Wednesday morning charged with lewd and lascivious molestation.
According to Coral Springs Police, Lyn picked up the boy, who is one of his congregants, to take him shopping on Aug. 6.
When he dropped the victim off at home, investigators said, Lyn pinned the teen against a kitchen counter. Officials said he then kissed and groped the boy.
Police said Lyn stopped suddenly and told the victim he had to leave but promised to molest him again.
Investigators said when the boy’s mother confronted Lyn in a recorded phone call monitored by police, he told her that he was “praying and fasting for forgiveness.”
Lyn was granted $75,000 bond that he has since posted. He was ordered not to have contact with any minors other than his 7-year-old daughter.
“These are serious allegations with a minor victim. I have to take all that into consideration,” said Judge Jackie Powell during Lyn’s bond court hearing.
7News cameras caught up with Lyn as he was leaving the Broward County Jail in Fort Lauderdale on Wednesday night, but he refused to answer any questions.
Detectives are concerned Lyn may have targeted other minors. They urged parents of children who attend the church to talk to them and report any suspicious behavior.
If you have any information that could help police, call Broward County Crime Stoppers at 954-493-TIPS. Remember, you can always remain anonymous, and you may be eligible for a $3,000 reward.
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