Former Faith Baptist Church youth pastor Roger VanRaden sentenced to 15 years for sexually assaulting teen in Champaign, Illinois

A former youth pastor of Faith Baptist Church in Champaign, Illinois, Roger VanRaden, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for sexually assaulting a teenage girl who was a member of the church. He had been charged with criminal sexual assault in the case.

According to Lt. Curt Apperson of the Champaign County Sheriff’s Office, the abuse began in September 2015 and ended in August 2019. Apperson said most of the illegal sexual activity occurred at the church, in an area segregated for youth activities, though some incidents took place outside the church during certain events, such as a youth camp. The victim was a church member when the conduct occurred, a fact that places the case within the trust placed in ministry leadership and the responsibility to protect young people in congregational settings (Proverbs 31:8-9).

VanRaden pleaded guilty to two counts of criminal sexual assault on Feb. 22, 2021. Under the plea agreement, the prosecution agreed to cap its sentencing recommendation at 23 years, provided that VanRaden complies with the terms and conditions of the plea order.

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