Nationwide — Junior Andrew Bennett, a 32-year-old African American church pastor from Pinon Hills, Southern California, has been arrested after investigators linked him to multiple child sex abuse allegations. Authorities say he used his position at church to manipulate minors, and detectives believe more victims may exist.
Bennett allegedly abused minors who were connected to him through his role as a church leader, according to KTLA. Investigators say his access to children stemmed directly from his influence within the church.
The case began on January 14 when deputies from the Victor Valley Sheriff’s Station received reports accusing Bennett of child abuse. Detectives spent several weeks interviewing witnesses and collecting evidence as the investigation progressed.
That work led authorities to serve a search warrant at a home in the 1000 block of Tamarack Road in Pinon Hills. Bennett was taken into custody at the residence without incident.
Bennett is the head pastor of Breakthrough Church in Pacoima and goes by the title “Prophet Junior Bennett.” Investigators believe he used his leadership role to gain trust and access to minors before sexually assaulting them.
He now faces multiple felony charges, including sodomy of a minor, lewd acts with a child, and oral copulation of a minor. Detectives said the investigation remains ongoing as they continue searching for potential additional victims.
Authorities are asking anyone with information about the case, or who believes they may be a victim to contact law enforcement. Investigators said public tips could play a key role as the case moves forward.