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Church Volunteer Investigated for Sex Abuse

Billy Townsend/THE TAMPA TRIBUNE

The Lakeland Police Department is conducting an ongoing criminal investigation into allegations of sexual abuse of middle school to high school aged students who attend The First Baptist Church at the Mall

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By JOSH POLTILOVE | The Tampa Tribune
and BILLY TOWNSEND | The Tampa Tribune

Published: October 28, 2007

Video: Congregation Informed Sunday

LAKELAND - The Lakeland Police Department is conducting an ongoing criminal investigation into allegations of sexual abuse of middle school to high school aged students who attend The First Baptist Church at the Mall, or who have attended the church in the past, according to a Lakeland police spokesman.

A reported victim, who is now an adult, has spoken with police.

Tim Parcheta, the church's executive director, said allegations were made to police about a week and a half ago against a volunteer with the church's student ministry.

"We asked the individual not to be here while the investigation is going on," Parcheta said.

The church, 1010 East Memorial Blvd., is cooperating fully with police, according to a Lakeland police release.

About 400 students attend middle or high school at the church at any given time, Parcheta said.

The church's pastor told congregants about the investigation at the end of a service this morning. More than 9,000 people attend the church, which is housed in a 32-acre complex.

Any people with knowledge of victimization regarding the investigation should call Lakeland Police Sgt. Gary Gross at (863) 834-8980.

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