Ronnie Gorton, the former pastor accused of molesting two teenagers, was back in court for a status hearing this week and was arrested on a new indictment.
Details of that new indictment have not yet been released and are not expected until Gorton is arraigned on Monday, July 16.
The 39-year-old was originally indicted in March, just weeks after being accused of molesting two teenagers.
The original charges were five counts of aggravated sexual battery, 17 counts of sexual battery by an authority figure, two counts of continuous sexual abuse of a child (Child Protection Act), 16 counts of statutory rape by an authority figure, two counts of exploitation of a minor by electronic means, two counts of contributing to the delinquency of a minor, two counts of purchasing alcohol for a child and one count of rape.
His bond was originally set for $500,000 but reduced to $100,000 on March 23. He has been living in Union City while out on bond.
Gorton is the former pastor of The Awakening Church in Munford, which closed its doors for unknown reasons before the accusations were made.
Tuesday’s arrest follows Monday’s quarterly meeting of the Tipton County Grand Jury.
Gorton is being represented by Memphis defense attorney Blake Ballin.
Author: Echo Day
Echo Day is an award-winning journalist, photographer and designer. She is currently The Leader's managing editor.
