News Summary
Paul Dyal, an 81-year-old former pastor in Jacksonville, has pleaded guilty to child abuse, receiving a five-year probation sentence as part of a plea deal. The agreement, aimed at sparing the victim from further court involvement, follows allegations of sexual and physical abuse dating back to the 1980s. Dyal was one of three men arrested in connection with a broader investigation into abuse within the church, which has seen multiple victims come forward. The State Attorney’s Office emphasized the need for community protection and scrutiny of religious institutions.
Jacksonville – Paul Dyal, an 81-year-old former pastor in Jacksonville, has pleaded guilty to one count of child abuse as part of a plea deal that has resulted in a five-year probation sentence. This plea agreement resolves a case initially marked by serious charges, including capital sexual battery related to events occurring between 1980 and 1987, allowing the victim, a minor and member of the church, to avoid further involvement in court proceedings.
Dyal’s legal troubles began in March 2022 when authorities raided the Jacksonville Assembly of the Body of Christ, where he served as pastor. He was among three men arrested in connection with allegations of sexual and physical abuse at the church, an investigation that began after a tip was received about child abuse in 2020. The church has been described by former attendees as having a cult-like atmosphere characterized by public humiliation and aggression.
The case against Dyal reflects broader concerns of abuse within the church community. Other alleged perpetrators include Vernon Williamson, sentenced to life in prison for two counts of capital sexual battery in 2024, and Jerome Teschendorf, who has pleaded not guilty and has a pretrial hearing scheduled for May 19. In total, at least eight women have come forward, detailing their abuse experiences while attending the church.
As part of the plea deal, which was finalized in court, Dyal has already served one year in jail. His probation will likely be served in Georgia if a transfer is approved. Importantly, the terms of his probation prohibit him from having unsupervised contact with minors, aiming to minimize the risk posed to the community.
During the court proceedings, the victim was not present; however, her impact statement was read aloud by a friend. In this statement, the victim expressed her feelings of confusion, anger, and hurt, noting the long-lasting effects that the abuse has had on her life. Despite her trauma, she has found a path toward support and healing in her adult years, illustrating the complex emotional reality faced by survivors of abuse.
The State Attorney’s Office has emphasized that the plea agreement was reached with the intent of sparing the victim from additional emotional distress and to protect the community, given Dyal’s advanced age and health issues. The case sheds light on the ongoing need for scrutiny and reform within religious institutions to address and prevent such abuses.
As this case concludes, it raises awareness not only of Dyal’s actions and consequences but also of the broader historical patterns of abuse that have reportedly occurred within this church for over three decades. The hope for healing and justice remains paramount for the victims and the community as they navigate the aftermath of these revelations.
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Additional Resources
- First Coast News
- Action News Jax
- Ministry Watch
- Wikipedia: Child Abuse
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Child Abuse
