Years of ignored warnings freed a children’s pastor to sexually abuse girls, lawsuit says
A lawsuit has been filed against the Assemblies of God, alleging that church leaders ignored multiple warnings about a children's pastor who sexually abused girls for years. The complaint details how Tony Waller was able to continue his abuse despite numerous reports from children about inappropriate behavior and hidden cameras. Survivors are seeking accountability from church officials for their failure to protect vulnerable children.
- ▪The lawsuit was filed by six women in Craighead County Circuit Court.
- ▪Tony Waller was convicted of raping two girls and sentenced to life in prison in 2016.
- ▪Church leaders allegedly dismissed reports of Waller's abuses for over 15 years.
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Pastors and PreyYears of ignored warnings freed a children’s pastor to sexually abuse girls, lawsuit saysLong before an Assemblies of God pastor was convicted of rape, children told church leaders about hidden cameras, drugged drinks and abuse, a new lawsuit says.Listen to this article with a free account00:0000:00Add NBC News to GoogleHow Assemblies of God churches allegedly shielded predators as they abused children04:47Get more newsLiveonShareAdd NBC News to GoogleMay 22, 2026, 12:32 PM EDTBy Mike HixenbaughThis article is part of “Pastors and Prey,” a series investigating sex abuse allegations in the Assemblies of God.
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