Thursday, January 6, 2011

Former pastor, Daniel L. Monk, found guilty of sexual abuse

NEWARK -- Despite attempts to delay, a 47-year-old former pastor was found guilty Wednesday of having sex with a 16-year-old congregant.

Daniel L. Monk, last known address 1025 Kelly Drive, Hebron, pleaded no contest and was found guilty of two counts of sexual battery, both third-degree felonies, and contributing to the delinquency of a minor, a first-degree misdemeanor. He could face up to 10 years in prison and a $21,000 fine for the offenses.

Between June and September, Monk had sex with a 16-year-old girl who was a congregant at Soul's Harbor Pentecostal Church, 12180 Lancaster St., Millersport, at her Hebron residence, Licking County Assistant Prosecutor Dan Huston said.

Monk told police he had counseled the girl before becoming a father figure ...