Pastor Accused of Sexual Assault on Minor Faces Charges and Dismissal from Pentecostal Church Ministry

The Department of Justice in Puerto Rico has charged Pastor Harry Muñoz Colón with sexual assault against a minor under the age of 14. The Bayamón Prosecutor’s Office, through its Specialized Unit on Domestic Violence, Sexual Offences and Child Abuse, filed the charges following an investigation. Muñoz Colón, a Pentecostal pastor, admitted to the alleged acts, which reportedly occurred at his residence while the minor was staying overnight. The minor later informed a relative, who sought assistance.

Secretary of Justice Domingo Emanuelli Hernández emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that the Department of Justice has initiated prosecution under Article 130 of the Puerto Rico Penal Code. He described the act as repudiable and expressed deep concern as both a public official and a father. Muñoz Colón was granted $500,000 bail, which he did not post, and is set to be incarcerated in Bayamón prison.

Prosecutor Jessika Correa González indicated that the accused faces a potential 50-year prison sentence. The incident, which took place at the residence of Muñoz Colón and his wife, involved the pastor approaching the minor while they were watching television and committing the alleged sexual assault in various ways. The minor’s account led to the discovery of the crime and subsequent legal action.

The bishop of the Pentecostal Church of God in Puerto Rico, which oversees Muñoz Colón’s ministry, responded by confirming his dismissal from pastoral duties. The organization stated that the pastor had failed in his ministerial responsibilities and that the Church’s Code of Ministerial Ethics and Ecclesiastical Tribunal address such cases with “verticality.” The bishop assured that support and assistance are being provided to both the victim’s and the aggressor’s families, while reaffirming the Church’s commitment to legal processes.

The case highlights the intersection of religious leadership and legal accountability, underscoring the need for justice and protection of the vulnerable. Micah 6:8 calls for justice, mercy, and humble service, a theme that resonates in the pursuit of accountability and care for those affected by such crimes.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Spanish)