Megachurch Founder Released After Child Sex Abuse Sentence

Robert Preston Morris served 6 months in Oklahoma jail for sexually abusing a child.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 8:34pm

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The founder of a Texas megachurch, Robert Preston Morris, has been released from an Oklahoma jail after serving a 6-month sentence for sexually abusing a child. Morris, 64, pleaded guilty to the charges and was sentenced to a short prison term.

Why it matters

The case highlights ongoing concerns about the lack of accountability and transparency around sexual abuse allegations within some large religious organizations. It also raises questions about sentencing guidelines for child sex abuse crimes.

The details

According to court records, Morris pleaded guilty to sexually abusing a child under the age of 14 while he was the leader of a megachurch in Texas. He was sentenced to 6 months in an Oklahoma jail, which many have criticized as an unusually lenient sentence for such a serious crime.

  • Morris was sentenced in March 2026.
  • He served his 6-month jail term and was released in September 2026.

The players

Robert Preston Morris

The 64-year-old founder of a Texas megachurch who was convicted of sexually abusing a child.

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What they’re saying

“A 6-month sentence for sexually abusing a child is completely unacceptable. We need much stronger penalties to protect vulnerable young people.”

— Sarah Johnson, Child Advocacy Organizer

What’s next

Prosecutors have indicated they may appeal the lenient sentence, arguing it does not fit the severity of the crime.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges in holding religious leaders accountable for sexual abuse, as well as the need for sentencing guidelines that properly reflect the gravity of child sex crimes.