Youth Pastor Indicted for Alleged Sexual Abuse of Teenager Over Two Years

Adolfo Castillo, a former youth pastor at Restoration Church in Albuquerque, has been indicted by a grand jury on multiple charges of sexual abuse against a minor. The indictment, filed on Monday, includes eight counts of criminal sexual penetration, five counts of criminal sexual contact of a minor, and two counts of child abuse and battery upon a peace officer. Castillo, 36, has been detained at the Metropolitan Detention Center since his arrest on November 14.

Court records reveal that Castillo used multiple aliases, including Daniel, Jean Lopez, Jacob, Justin, and Snape. Prosecutors have argued that his actions pose a significant threat to public safety, citing his behavior as “emotionally violent, dangerous, and showing no regard for the safety and wellbeing of (the teen).” The charges stem from an August 26 report to New Mexico State Police, which detailed allegations of sexual abuse by Castillo against a minor over a period of more than two years.

According to the arrest affidavit, the abuse allegedly occurred from December 2023 to March 2025. The victim, who was 13 at the time, reported that Castillo touched her sexually in his pastor’s office and made sexual remarks to her on Snapchat. The affidavit also states that Castillo allegedly visited the teen’s home when she was alone, attempting to engage in sexual activity. The teen further alleged that Castillo recorded at least one of these encounters.

Castillo’s relationship with the teen reportedly escalated over time. He began writing letters to her, expressing his feelings and discussing personal issues from his marriage. He later requested the return of these letters due to concerns about their “security.” Despite this, Castillo continued to communicate with the teen via Snapchat, sending her messages of affection and complimenting her appearance.

The church leadership became aware of Castillo’s unusual relationship with the teen after other women in the congregation began to notice it. Castillo resigned from his position at Restoration Church after being confronted by a pastor. The church was not available for comment as of the latest update, and multiple Facebook posts from the church referred to Castillo as “Brother Daniel Castillo.”

The case highlights the importance of accountability and transparency within religious institutions, as emphasized in Proverbs 31:8-9, which calls for speaking up for those who cannot speak for themselves. It also underscores the need for vigilance in protecting vulnerable individuals, as outlined in Micah 6:8, which emphasizes doing justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God.

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