Fmr. Minister Wanted on Sexual Assault Charges, WTNH, October 18, 2011

Fmr. Minister Wanted on Sexual Assault Charges

WTNH
October 18, 2011

http://www.wtnh.com/dpp/news/crime/fmr.-minister-wanted-on-sexual-assault-charges

Fmr. minister wanted on sexual assault charges: wtnh.com

Meriden, Conn. (WTNH) - Police in Meriden are searching for a former minister who is wanted on sexual assault charges.

Juan Mayorga, 40, used to be a minister at a church in Wallingford, but now there is a warrant out for his arrest, for first-degree sexual assault on a minor.

People in the neighborhood are shocked and are voicing their concerns.

"It's a church," said Jackie Owens, "he is a minister and it was a minor. That's just three weird things."

Police say they want Juan Mayorga, the former minister at the Taracea Alpha Y Omega Church for sex assault on a minor.

The incident allegedly happened in Meriden and was not affiliated with a church activity.

Kisha Monique Savage said she has seen the former minister around and can't believe the allegations.

"I did not know anything about it," said Savage, "and it is scary to know that it was right across the street from my house. I am hoping that he is found."

Police said they were negotiating with Mayorga's attorney for his surrender, but they believe he may have left the state.

Police are being alerted in Connecticut, West Virginia, Virginia, and Florida where he has family.

Those in Wallingford just hope that he is caught soon.

"You are expecting these people to be models and to mirror what god would want you to do on earth," said Savage, "and it's disturbing when you can't trust these people with your kids."

"It's almost disbelief that something like that could happen with a man of the cloth," said Rich Lenart.

"I feel really creeped out," said Kacie Bogan, "And there are a lot of little kids that live on this block. It's all families."

Mayorga is described as a Hispanic male, 5' 11" tall, weighing 190 lbs. He has black hair and brown eyes.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Jose Rivera at 203-630-6265.