Former Associate Pastor Sentenced to 10-25 Years for Assaulting 3 Children

Randy Saylor pleaded no contest to 11 felony counts of criminal sexual conduct

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Former associate pastor Randy Saylor was sentenced to 10 to 25 years in prison for sexually assaulting three children between 2017 and 2021. Saylor pleaded no contest to 11 criminal sexual conduct charges, stating it was due to civil liability. Two of the victims, including a relative of Saylor, gave emotional victim impact statements during the sentencing hearing.

Why it matters

The case highlights the betrayal of trust when a religious leader abuses their position of authority to sexually assault children, especially family members. It raises concerns about accountability and oversight within religious institutions when such crimes occur.

The details

Saylor pleaded no contest to 11 felony counts of criminal sexual conduct for assaulting three children between 2017 and 2021 while he was an associate pastor at Living Word Church. During the sentencing, Saylor addressed the courtroom as if he was preaching to his congregation, rather than addressing the judge directly as most defendants do.

  • Saylor assaulted the children between 2017 and 2021.
  • Saylor pleaded no contest to the charges on January 23, 2026.
  • Saylor was sentenced on February 24, 2026.

The players

Randy Saylor

A 73-year-old former associate pastor at Living Word Church who was sentenced to 10 to 25 years in prison for sexually assaulting three children between 2017 and 2021.

Courtney Driscoll

The assistant prosecuting attorney who became emotional during the sentencing and asked Saylor to clarify why he was pleading no contest.

Michael Beale

The Midland County Circuit Court judge who presided over the sentencing and noted that sexual assault cases involving the abuse of family members are among the most horrific cases a judge can preside over.

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What they’re saying

“I hoped the victims and their families find healing after the "trouble" I caused.”

— Randy Saylor, Former Associate Pastor

“(She) did a better job. That was the most Christian response that could have been given.”

— Judge Michael Beale

What’s next

The judge will determine whether Saylor will be eligible for parole after serving the minimum 10-year sentence.

The takeaway

This case highlights the devastating impact when religious leaders abuse their positions of trust to sexually assault vulnerable children, even their own family members. It underscores the need for greater accountability and oversight within religious institutions to prevent such crimes and support victims.