Update: Pastor accused of luring woman into sexual assault trap twice gets $700k bail

A 45-year-old minister of religion accused of sexually assaulting a woman he allegedly lured with promises of employment has been granted $700,000 bail.

The clergyman is charged with grievous sexual assault, forcible detention with intent to commit sexual intercourse and forcible abduction.

He appeared before Parish Court Judge Genetta Smikle on Tuesday, September 29, when bail was granted with one surety.

As part of his bail conditions, the accused must report to the police three times per week.

The matter is scheduled to return to court on December 4.

Allegations are that the clergyman met the complainant in the Corporate Area and offered to help her secure employment.

Police further allege that on August 7 and August 16, he lured the woman to his home in Portmore, St Catherine.

It is alleged that on both occasions, he took her cellular phone, detained her and sexually assaulted her.

The woman subsequently made a report to the Centre for the Investigation of Sexual Offences and Child Abuse.

The pastor was later arrested and formally charged following a question-and-answer session with investigators.

He has not been convicted of the allegations.

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