FORT WORTH, Texas – Jurors in Fort Worth today convicted an Arlington minister of sexually assaulting three women.
Now comes the punishment phase for the Reverend Terry Hornbuckle, who founded the Agape Christian Fellowship.
Each sexual assault count carries a penalty of up to 20 years in prison.
Two accusers are former church members. Allegations were raised that Hornbuckle drugged at least two of the women.
The defense rested last Tuesday without calling any witnesses.
Defense attorney Leon Haley, during closing arguments, said Hornbuckle’s trial was a lesson in the evils of drugs and adultery — but didn’t involve crimes.
But prosecutors say the cases fit the definition of rape in Texas.
W-B-AP radio reports Hornbuckle shook his head and lowered his head as the verdict was read.