Local Pastor Accused Of Sexual Assault
Female Parishioners Allegedly Fondled During Religious Ritual
POSTED: Wednesday, February 13, 2002
UPDATED: 1:10 pm EST February 13,
2002
ROSEVILLE, Mich. -- A local pastor is accused of sexually assaulting parishioners during some type of religious ritual.
Gennaro Joseph Piscopo (pictured, left), 50, was arraigned Tuesday in Roseville District Court after turning himself in to police that morning. He was charged with two counts of second-degree criminal sexual conduct and two counts of fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct.
Piscopo is the pastor of Evangel Christian Church. He is accused of fondling female parishioners during a religious ritual called "The Deliverance." The victims are reportedly in their 30s and 40s.
Roseville Police Chief Richard Heinz said at times the fondling was forced. He said that another person -- an unknowing accomplice -- would hold down the person as part of the ritual.
No other people have been charged in the case, Local 4 reported.
Piscopo is out on a $50,000 personal bond. He is expected back in court in March.
Roseville police said if there are any more victims that they should come forward. To contact Roseville police call (586) 775-2100.
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