11/13/09 – AP: Child ‘brides’ testify at evangelist’s sentencing
Associated Press
November 13, 2009
JON GAMBRELL
Child ‘brides’ testify at evangelist’s sentencing
TEXARKANA, Ark. (AP) – Three women who Tony Alamo took as child “brides” have testified at Alamo’s sentencing hearing about the damage the convicted evangelist did to them and their families.
Alamo was before a federal judge Friday to be sentenced on convictions for taking young girls across state lines. The leader of Tony Alamo Christian Ministries has been in federal custody since he was caught after a raid on his compound in Fouke in 2008.
Testimony is to continue, and Alamo indicated he may take the stand.
U.S. District Judge Harry Barnes says he may go above the sentencing guidelines because Alamo used his role as pastor and father figure to control the young girls. Barnes said Alamo could get a life sentence.