Preacher Charged with Sex Assault of Teen Babysitter While Wife Hospitalized, Police Say

In a recent development, a 34-year-old preacher has been charged with sexual battery on a minor, following allegations of misconduct involving a teenage girl who babysat his children. The incident, which reportedly took place while his wife was hospitalized, has drawn significant attention from law enforcement and the community.

Junior Augustin, an evangelist known for his online sermons, faces charges of sexual battery on a minor aged 16 or 17, as well as a sex offense involving a victim over 12 and up to 15 years old. The Broward Sheriff’s Office Special Victims Unit arrested Augustin at his home in Deerfield Beach. The girl, who cared for Augustin’s eight children in January and February, reportedly returned to her home in March.

Concerns arose when the girl’s mother noticed suspicious behavior, prompting her to examine her daughter’s phone. She discovered sexually explicit photos and messages exchanged between Augustin and the girl through WhatsApp and Telegram. These findings led to a confrontation at the church where Augustin served, with a meeting held to address the allegations. Augustin’s wife was present, and the meeting was recorded, as was customary for church gatherings.

In a subsequent meeting, Augustin reportedly confessed to preying on the girl. Detectives received recordings of these confessions, and it was reported that the girl or her mother expressed a desire to press charges. The church’s identity was not disclosed in the release from the Sheriff’s Office.

Authorities have expressed concern that there may be additional victims and are urging anyone with information to come forward. This case echoes past incidents involving South Florida preachers, highlighting ongoing issues of accountability within religious communities. As the investigation continues, the community is reminded of the biblical call to justice and care for the vulnerable, as encapsulated in Micah 6:8, which emphasizes justice, mercy, and humility before God.

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