A second pastor has come forward with allegations of sexual misconduct against well-known televangelist Bishop T.D. Jakes. Richard Edwin Youngblood submitted a six-page sworn affidavit detailing his claims, which was included in a legal motion to dismiss Jakes’ lawsuit against Youngblood’s brother, Duane Youngblood.
Jakes had sued Duane Youngblood in November after Duane publicly accused him of sexual abuse during a YouTube interview. Now, Richard Youngblood has also alleged that Jakes sexually assaulted him decades ago.
Details of the Allegations
Richard Youngblood’s affidavit states that in 1986, while sharing a hotel room with Jakes, the preacher climbed into his bed and pressed his body against him. Jakes allegedly made a sexual comment referencing his arousal. Youngblood claims he rejected Jakes’ advances and later confronted him about the incident, only to receive a dismissive response.
Youngblood stated that he initially met Jakes after attending a weeklong conference where Jakes spoke. Over time, Youngblood became Jakes’ “armorbearer,” assisting him with daily tasks and ministry responsibilities. The affidavit alleges that Jakes’ conversations eventually became more personal and sexually charged.
Church’s Response and Past Handling of Allegations
Attempts to reach The Potter’s House, Jakes’ Dallas-based church, for comment have been unsuccessful. Emails requesting a response to the allegations were not returned.
Youngblood claims that after the alleged incident, he reported it to a church elder, who then informed Jakes. He alleges that Jakes reacted angrily, accusing Youngblood of being a liar and warning his wife against trusting him. Another minister reportedly questioned Youngblood about his own actions, implying he had encouraged Jakes’ advances.
Legal Battle and Additional Evidence
Richard Youngblood’s affidavit is one of six submitted in support of Duane Youngblood’s claims that Jakes pursued an inappropriate relationship with him as a teenager. The 167-page motion to dismiss also includes a police report filed by Duane Youngblood regarding an alleged threat from Jakes’ son, Jermaine Jakes.
A court ruling on Jan. 25 gave Jakes until Feb. 14 to respond to Youngblood’s motion, with a 20-page limit. Youngblood then has until Feb. 21 to file a reply, limited to 15 pages.
Supporters and Critics React
Supporters of Jakes argue that the allegations are unproven and could be an attempt to damage his reputation. They highlight his decades-long career in ministry and his significant influence in the religious community. Detractors, however, believe the growing number of accusations raises serious concerns and warrants further investigation. They argue that the church must address these claims transparently.
As the legal proceedings continue, the case has sparked debate about accountability within religious institutions and the power dynamics between church leaders and their followers.
Source:
In Legal Filing, Second Pastor Alleges Televangelist T.D. Jakes Sexually Abused Him
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