A well-known youth evangelist from Alabama has been accused of several child sexual charges after a teenage boy reported that he was the victim of the man’s actions.
37-year-old Paul Edward Acton Bowen of Gadsden, Alabama, has worked as an evangelist in several mediums such as a weekly worldwide broadcast, a local Bible study for children, and lending his service to a local church for 12 years. Additionally, he was a chaplain at the Summer Olympics in London, and he is a best-selling author. He and his wife reside in Etowah County.
Authorities reported that three weeks ago a young boy between the ages of 12 and 16 came forward and alerted them that he had been a victim of sexual abuse at the hands of Bowen from 2006 through 2009. The alleged victim was reportedly an acquaintance of Bowen’s family, but due to his age, further personal details are not being disclosed.
A thorough investigation into the claims made by the teen was opened by the Special Victims Unit of the Hoover Police Department.
On Monday, warrants for Bowen’s arrest were issued. He was taken into custody by Hoover Police just after 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday.
Bowen was taken to the Hoover City Jail and then moved to the Jefferson County Jail where he remained overnight and was released around 5:00 a.m. on Wednesday after posting $90,300 bond.
Bowen is facing charges of second-degree sodomy, enticing a child to enter a vehicle or house for immoral purposes, and second-degree sex abuse.
On Tuesday, Etowah County issued seven additional charges against Bowen based on four more victims reporting that they allegedly had sexual encounters with him, one occurrence as recently as last month.
Bowen released a statement on Wednesday denying all of the charges against him and thanking those who were giving him and his family prayers and support. During his announcement, Bowen said, “I believe the truth will stand and I will be vindicated of this false accusation.”
A court date of May 15 has been scheduled for Bowen on the charges handed down in Hoover, but a date has not yet been set for the Etowah County charges.
If you or someone you love is suspected of a sex crime, contact Orange County criminal defense lawyer Staycie R. Sena at (949) 477-8088 for a consultation now.