Former Youth Pastor Pleads Guilty to Repeated Sexual Assault in Wisconsin
MADISON, Wis. (WBAY) — James Lane, a 53-year-old former youth pastor, pleaded guilty on Thursday in Wood County court to charges of repeated sexual assault against a minor. The Wisconsin Department of Justice (DOJ) announced that the charges stemmed from reports made through its Clergy and Faith Leader Abuse Initiative, aimed at addressing abuse within religious settings.
The assaults occurred between September 1, 2002, and December 31, 2003, primarily in Lane’s vehicle while he was transporting the victim home. The victim did not report the incidents until recently, utilizing the online platform set up by the initiative, launched in April 2021. This program encourages survivors and those with relevant information to come forward.
Lane served as a youth pastor at Faith Reformed Church in Wisconsin Rapids at the time of the crimes. Following his guilty plea, a sentencing hearing is scheduled for June 3, where Lane faces a potential sentence of up to 40 years in prison.
The initiative remains a critical resource for survivors of abuse by faith leaders, highlighting the importance of reporting and accountability within religious organizations.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
