A federal grand jury in the Southern District of Georgia has indicted Bernadel Semexant, a pastor associated with the House of Prayer Christian Church of America (HOPCC), on multiple charges involving sexual offenses against a minor. The indictment, unsealed on September 10, 2025, lists five counts: Enticement of a Minor to Engage in Sexual Activity, Sexual Abuse of a Minor, Transfer of Obscene Material to a Minor, Receipt of Child Pornography, and Possession of Child Pornography.
Semexant, 35, is identified as residing in Hinesville and Savannah, Georgia. According to authorities, he may have worked at several HOPCC locations across the United States. These locations include Hephzibah and Hinesville in Georgia; Savannah, Georgia; Fayetteville, North Carolina; Tacoma, Washington; Waco, Texas; and Clarksville, Tennessee.
“Our law enforcement partners work relentlessly to protect our most vulnerable citizens from harm and exploitation,” said U.S. Attorney Heap. “This indictment demonstrates the continued success of those efforts.”
“The allegations in this indictment reflect a profound betrayal of trust by an individual in a position of spiritual authority. The FBI is committed to pursuing those who exploit children and ensuring they are held accountable,” said Paul Brown, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “We urge anyone with information about Pastor Semexant or others in positions of trust within HOPCC to come forward—your voice matters, and you may help protect other potential victims.”
Each charge carries significant penalties if convicted. Enticement of a Minor to Engage in Sexual Activity carries not less than 10 years up to life imprisonment along with fines up to $250,000 and at least five years supervised release. Sexual Abuse of a Minor could result in up to 15 years’ imprisonment with similar fines and supervision requirements. Transfer of Obscene Material to a Minor carries up to 10 years’ imprisonment and at least three years supervised release. Both Receipt and Possession of Child Pornography carry maximum sentences of up to 20 years’ imprisonment each as well as mandatory sex offender registration and restitution requirements.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation is leading the investigation into this case alongside Assistant United States Attorneys Frank M. Pennington II and Sherri A. Stephan.
Authorities encourage anyone actively being victimized or with relevant information regarding Pastor Semexant or other individuals associated with HOPCC to contact local law enforcement immediately or fill out the form available at fbi.gov/SEMEXANTHOPCC.
An indictment is an allegation only; all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.
