Edouard Submits Written Not Guilty Plea, by Steve Woodhouse, The Journal-Express, May 19, 2011

Edouard Submits Written Not Guilty Plea

By Steve Woodhouse
The Journal-Express
May 19, 2011

http://journalexpress.net/local/x1376633305/Edouard-submits-written-not-guilty-plea

Patrick Edouard, a former pastor at the Covenant Reformed Church in Pella was arrested Wednesday and charged with three counts of sexual abuse 3rd degree, two counts of sexual exploitation and one count of sexual exploitation by a counselor.

Pella — Accused former Pella Pastor Patrick Edouard has submitted a written plea of not guilty and waived his right to a speedy trial.

Patrick Edouard, 41, a former pastor at the Covenant Reformed Church in Pella was arrested March 23 and charged with three counts of sexual abuse 3rd degree, two counts of sexual exploitation and one count of sexual exploitation by a counselor.

Court records indicate that Edouard, pictured, forced sexual contact on at least three women while serving as the minister from 2003-10. Each sexual abuse complaint included statements that Edouard told the women that if they reported the abuse, no one would believe them. In one case, he told the woman that her husband would not forgive her.

In a written statement acquired by the Journal-Express, The Consistory at Covenant Reformed Church stated, "The congregation of Covenant Reformed Church has undergone a severe trial. We request all Christians be in prayer for us. There will be no further comment."

Edouard has moved to Byron Center, Mich., after resigning from his position at the church. It has been reported that Edouard resigned after being confronted with the accusations by the church board.

Edouard is out on bond. Online records do not indicate his next court appearance.