Terrebonne Parish Sheriff's Office deputies today announced the arrest of the pastor of a Thibodaux church and alleged accomplice on multiple counts of child abuse.
Thomas J. Tucker, the self-identified pastor of the Outcast to Society ministries, faces charges of engaging in sexual conduct with minors. Sharotta Lewis is accused of knowing about the alleged abuse but nor reporting it.
"The investigation began when Special Victim’s Unit Detectives were made aware of child abuse allegations reported to The Department of Child and Family Services (DCFS), involving juveniles residing within Terrebonne Parish," the sheriff's office said. "As Detectives worked closely with child protection investigators, interviews were conducted, evidence was collected, and the safety and wellbeing of the involved children became the highest priority."
The sheriff's office says there are multiple known victims, and believe there may be more who have yet to come forward.
"Protecting children is one of the most important responsibilities we have as a law enforcement agency," said Sheriff Tim Soignet. "These investigations require patience, compassion, and a tremendous amount of work by our detectives and our partner agencies. We are committed to holding anyone accountable who victimizes a child, while ensuring every child involved receives the protection and support they deserve."
The Terrebonne Parish Sheriff's Office asks anyone who believes they may be a victim, or has information that can help detectives, to call their Special Victims Unit at (985) 876-2500, or Bayou Region Crime Stoppers at (800) 743-7433.
