A man studying to become a pastor at a Waco, Texas, seminary is accused of sexually assaulting a 13-year-old Sunday night.
Benjamin William Nelson, 27, was arrested Monday afternoon at his home after a woman allegedly found him in a car with his daughter at a Whitney shopping center near the family’s home. According to KWTX, an affidavit claimed the unnamed woman caught the teen “on top” of Nelson late Sunday.
The pastor at Peoria Baptist Church is also accused of trying to run the mother over after the victim got out of the vehicle. Nelson is said to have locked the door after the 13-year-old exited the car so her mother couldn’t confront him.
A news release stated the 27-year-old is charged with two felony counts of sexual assault of a child and one Class A misdemeanor charge of deadly conduct.
The victim later told police they met through Snapchat and communicated through the app for two weeks before meeting from person. She alleged Nelson—who is married—kissed her and touched her vagina and breasts. She also disclosed she performed oral sex on Nelson.
The 27-year-old started studying at George W. Truett Theological Seminary at Baylor University last year to get his master’s of divinity degree, according to The Dallas Morning News.
Nelson is held at the Hill County Jail awaiting arraignment and bond. The San Antonio Express-News reported that the Whitney Police Department believes there are other witnesses and victims out there and are asking them to reach out by calling 254-694-2638.
[Feature Photo: Hill County Sheriff’s Office]