Bible study leader arrested for child molestation

An AWANA Bible study class leader at a Pennsylvania church was arrested last week after a woman claimed he sexually abused her as a child.

Michael Hess, 49, of Quarryville, was arrested last week after his accuser claimed he repeatedly abused her more than 30 times 12 years ago, when she was just 7 years old.

Hess was charged with aggravated indecent assault of a minor, unlawful contact with a child, aggravated indecent assault, indecent assault of a person under 13, corruption of a minor and indecent assault without the consent of others, York, Pennsylvania-based Fox 43 reported.

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He was released from jail on $75,000 unsecured bail.

The victim alleged that Hess forced her to sit on his lap for an entire academic year and then put his hand down her pants during a Bible study. The abuse occurred when she was between 7 and 8 years old.

After his arrest, Hess reportedly admitted to authorities that he had touched the woman inappropriately when she was a young child, Harrisburg-based station CBS 21 reported.

The Bible study where the abuse occurred took place at the New Providence Church of God, a New Providence-based congregation affiliated with the Churches of God, General Conference.

Hess reportedly told state police that while he did not know how many times he abused the victim, it was “most likely” that it occurred between 30 and 36 times each week.

“…after a meeting with the Pennsylvania State Police, Providence Church was made aware that Michael Hess, a church volunteer, was arrested and charged with sexual assault of a minor,” a church statement quoted by CBS 21 said .

“Police informed the church that the incident occurred on the church premises about 12 years ago. The church continues to work closely with the Pennsylvania State Police. We deeply mourn the victim and the family and pray for all those affected.”