Memphis Church Elder Charged with Sexual Abuse of Minor

By David Waters
Commercial Appeal
July 10, 2012

http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2012/jul/10/memphis-church-elder-charged-with-sexual-abuse/

A 50-year-old elder at a local Church of God in Christ has been removed from church duties pending a police investigation of charges of sexual exploitation of a minor.

Orlando Wallace, one of seven elders at Lakeview Community Temple Church of God in Christ, was arrested Friday on accusations of having sex with a 15-year-old girl while another 15-year-old girl took pictures on her cellphone. Wallace pleaded not guilty in a Monday court appearance. He is in Shelby County jail on $50,000 bond.

"None of the alleged victims are members or affiliated with Lakeview Community Temple Church Of God In Christ in any way," Jesse Lipford, Lakeview's pastor for more than 30 years, said in a statement issued to the congregation and the public.

"In addition, none of the alleged acts took place in the church. The church is not responsible for any of its members' questionable lifestyles. We teach holiness, and we expect our members to live godly lives in the presence of the Lord, their families, and the community.

"I was shocked to hear of the allegations against Elder Wallace. We are praying for the alleged victims, their families, and the family of Elder Wallace."

Lipford said Wallace has been a church elder for about five years and a member for about seven.