PA- Lawyer claims “exploiting a minor” charge was with an adult

For immediate release: Thursday, July 24, 2014


An attorney for a once-convicted preacher accused of sexual misconduct with a congregant is claiming that the victim was over 18 and consenting. Regardless of the age of the victim, there can never be true consent between a congregant and a religious authority figure. 

Duane Youngblood works at Higher Call World Outreach Church in Homestead. His attorney referred to the abuse as a consensual relationship with an adult, but that is a dangerous and manipulative claim that obscures the true nature of what happened. There can be no true consent when the power difference between the individuals is so great. That's why it's illegal in all states for therapists to sexually exploit clients and doctors to sexually exploit patients. In 17 states, it's illegal for ministers to sexually exploit congregants. Age doesn't matter.

Youngblood also has a previous sexual assault conviction involving a minor. 

We hope that church officials will aggressively reach out to anyone else who may have been hurt by Youngblood. And we hope anyone who saw, suspects or suffered sexual abuse by Youngblood or any other church official will find the courage to speak up and start healing.




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