North Texas Pastor Arrested for Sexual Abuse of Relative in 2008, Raising Child Protection Concerns
A North Texas pastor has been arrested for sexually abusing a 14-year-old relative more than a decade ago, highlighting ongoing concerns about the safeguarding of children within religious communities.
Troyce Hernandez, 50, pastor of Arlington’s True Grace Church, was arrested by Irving police on January 29 and charged with indecency with a child – sexual contact. According to an affidavit obtained by WFAA, the alleged child sexual abuse occurred in 2008 when a 14-year-old child, who is a relative of Hernandez, was in his apartment. Authorities stated that the case involves sexual contact, with Hernandez accused of inappropriate touching.
Police have declined to release further details due to the sensitive nature of the case, though a spokesperson confirmed the charges in response to public concern.
This arrest is part of a troubling pattern of sexual misconduct allegations involving local clergy, drawing renewed attention to the risks children face in environments where trust and authority can be misused. Experts say children are especially vulnerable when perpetrators hold positions of power or are close family members, and that fear, loyalty, or manipulation can prevent children from speaking out.
Child Protection and Safeguarding Concerns
Cases like this highlight the urgent need for strong child safeguarding measures in religious and community settings. Child-rights advocates emphasize that protections must go beyond written policies and include practical measures, such as:
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Mandatory reporting: Adults in positions of authority should be trained to recognize signs of child sexual abuse and report them immediately.
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Background checks: Thorough screening of clergy and staff, including checks for past allegations or convictions, is critical.
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Education for children: Teaching children about boundaries and encouraging them to speak openly with trusted adults can help prevent abuse.
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Independent oversight: Religious and community organizations should maintain independent boards to investigate allegations impartially.
“Child sexual abuse often goes unreported because children fear speaking out,” said a child protection advocate. “It is vital to create systems where children are heard, believed, and safeguarded before harm occurs.”
The case also illustrates how long-delayed reporting can complicate prosecutions but does not reduce the urgency of holding abusers accountable or preventing future abuse. Advocates note that cultural change is needed in institutions where authority is concentrated in a single individual.
Experts recommend that families remain vigilant, maintain open communication with children, understand children’s rights, and seek professional support if abuse is suspected.
As legal proceedings against Hernandez continue, child-rights organizations stress that the case serves as a stark reminder: safeguarding children requires constant attention, transparency, and proactive action across homes, schools, and religious institutions.
