Renowned megachurch pastor Bishop T.D. Jakes is taking a bold legal stand against explosive sexual abuse allegations, filing a defamation lawsuit against fellow pastor Duane Youngblood that has sent shockwaves through the religious community.
Duane Youngblood’s Allegations
In a dramatic turn of events, Jakes has responded to Youngblood’s serious claims by pursuing legal action in Pennsylvania federal court.
During an October 27 podcast episode of “Larry Reid Live,” Duane Youngblood alleged that T.D. Jakes attempted to sexually assault him when he was 18 or 19 years old, claiming the bishop tried to groom him and forcibly hug and kiss him.
High-Stakes Legal Demands
Youngblood and his attorney Tyrone Blackburn initially demanded $6 million from Jakes to “resolve the matter quickly and privately.”
When Jakes refused, the pastor chose to fight back through a defamation lawsuit, categorically denying the accusations.
Jakes’ Legal Response
In their legal filing, Bishop T.D. Jakes’ legal team made a powerful statement: “This lawsuit is intended to bring this scheme to a halt and restore Bishop Jakes’s reputation.”
They emphasized that while Jakes believes genuine sexual abuse victims deserve respect and support, these particular accusations are “knowingly false” and motivated by personal financial gain.
Context & Credibility Concerns
Notably, the lawsuit highlights that Duane Youngblood is a registered sex offender in Pennsylvania, having previously pleaded guilty to sexually assaulting at least two teenage boys.
Youngblood has since claimed to be reformed, even publishing a book titled, “Freedom from Homosexuality: No Longer Living the Lie.”
Larry Reid took to Instagram to share his thoughts on the lawsuit.
Personal Health Amid Legal Battle
The legal drama comes on the heels of a medical incident during a recent sermon.
Bishop T.D. Jakes’ team confirmed he is recovering and undergoing medical tests, with professionals ruling out a stroke.
They described the incident as a moment that brought the bishop “face-to-face with his own humanity.”
About Bishop T.D. Jakes
Founder of The Potters House, a non-denominational, multicultural church established in 1996, Bishop Jakes leads a congregation of over 30,000 members.
The motivational speaker, born Thomas Dexter Jakes, remains a prominent figure in religious circles.
As the defamation lawsuit unfolds, the religious community watches closely, awaiting further developments in this high-profile legal battle.
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Disclaimer: This article reports on ongoing legal proceedings and allegations. All parties are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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