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Vian Today
By the People, for the People
Vian Pastor Charged with Lewd Molestation Scheduled to Appear Before Judge
Michael Martin, 74, faces felony count of lewd molestation in Sequoyah County District Court
Mar. 18, 2026 at 4:07pm
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A Vian pastor charged in 2025 with a felony count of lewd molestation in Sequoyah County District Court is now scheduled to appear before Special Judge Matt Orendorff, according to court records. Michael Martin, 74, pastor of Vian Baptist Church, was formally charged on Nov. 13, 2025, and a felony warrant was issued for his arrest the same day.
Why it matters
The case raises serious concerns about the alleged abuse of a minor by a trusted community religious leader, and the potential impact on the congregation and broader community. It also highlights the importance of thorough investigations and due process in sensitive cases involving vulnerable individuals.
The details
According to the probable cause affidavit, Vian Police received a report on Sept. 22 that Martin allegedly touched a minor under the age of 16 in an inappropriate manner at the church on Sept. 16. The minor stated that while outside, Martin came up behind them, put his hands on their shoulders, and then 'continued to get into their personal space.' Martin reportedly let go of the minor's shoulders but continued to stand close to them. The minor said they were too shaken to step away from Martin, and reported the alleged incident to one of the church's youth leaders. When interviewed by police, Martin claimed the allegations never happened, but then said 'if it did happen, if it did, I am not saying it did because I don't believe it did, I have a pretty good memory for circumstances like that.' He also stated several times that 'if it happened, it was an accident' and that 'the victim possibly backed into him,' although he claimed he did not remember the incident at all.
- Martin was formally charged on Nov. 13, 2025.
- Martin's last felony disposition docket was held on March 11, 2026.
The players
Michael Martin
A 74-year-old pastor of Vian Baptist Church who was charged with a felony count of lewd molestation in Sequoyah County District Court.
Matt Orendorff
The special judge presiding over the case against Michael Martin.
Jack Thorp
The district attorney who stated that if found guilty, the crime Martin is charged with is punishable by imprisonment for three to 20 years.
What they’re saying
“Or if it did happen, if it did, I am not saying it did because I don't believe it did, I have a pretty good memory for circumstances like that.”
— Michael Martin, Pastor
“If it happened, it was an accident and the victim possibly backed into him.”
— Michael Martin, Pastor
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Michael Martin out on bail.
The takeaway
This case highlights the need for thorough investigations and due process when allegations of abuse by a trusted community leader arise, in order to protect vulnerable individuals and maintain public trust in religious institutions.
