Evangelical Church in Fullerton Discovers Past Sexual Abuse by Elder, Leads to Criminal Charges (Fullerton, California)

Pastors at First Evangelical Free Church in Fullerton, California, reported suspicions about James Truxton, a prominent elder, regarding child molestation over a decade ago. A young woman disclosed during premarital counseling that Truxton had molested her as a child. Additional women later came forward with similar allegations.

Truxton, a long-time member since 1958, eventually confessed to the sexual acts. He wrote letters of regret to victims and church members and established a $30,000 trust fund to assist with counseling costs for victims. The church, led by Charles Swindoll at the time, removed Truxton from his position as an elder and revoked his membership.

Swindoll delivered a sermon titled “In Defense of the Helpless,” which was broadcast on his radio program, Insight for Living. The sermon strongly addressed church-related sexual abuse. However, due to the cases dating back more than six years, the statute of limitations prevented criminal prosecution.

Last summer, Insight for Living rebroadcast Swindoll’s sermon. A listener, who had previously shared her experience with the church, contacted Fullerton police to inquire about Truxton’s status. After learning he had not faced charges, she informed police that Truxton had molested her from 1978 to 1981.

California law had since changed, removing the statute of limitations for new claims. Police reopened the case with the Fullerton church’s full cooperation. Authorities filed charges in March that Truxton had performed oral sex on a child. Now 86, Truxton faces a potential eight-year prison sentence if convicted. He was released from jail after posting a $25,000 bond.

Prosecutor Randy Payne noted that it was unusual for an evangelical church to report one of its own. Payne, a deputy district attorney, remarked that while the church took action against Truxton in 1992, such openness is not typical. He explained that many churches tend to cover up such allegations, as people often struggle to believe such abuse occurs.

The case highlights the importance of accountability and honest dealing, as seen in Micah 6:8, which calls for justice, mercy, and humble service. The church’s decision to investigate and report the case reflects a commitment to these principles.

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