Pastor Semexant Indicted for Child Sex Offenses in GA

A federal grand jury in Savannah, GA, has indicted Bernadel Semexant, 35, of Hinesville and Savannah, for a litany of sex offenses against a minor. The House of Prayer Christian Church (HOPCC) pastor is accused of enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity, sexual abuse of a minor, transfer of obscene material to a minor, receipt of child pornography, and possession of child pornography.

The charges were unsealed on September 10, 2025. U.S. Attorney Heap emphasized the law enforcement’s dedication to protecting vulnerable citizens, highlighting this case as another success in their endeavors.

Special Agent in Charge Paul Brown of the FBI Atlanta office condemned the betrayal of trust and encouraged anyone with information about Semexant or other trustworthy individuals at HOPCC to come forward. The maximum penalties for these offenses are severe, including life imprisonment in certain cases and fines reaching $250,000.

Semexant may have worked at multiple locations of HOPCC across the United States, with known branches in Georgia, North Carolina, Washington, Texas, and Tennessee. The FBI and U.S. Attorneys Office are seeking additional information via a short form on their website for any relevant details concerning this investigation.

Assistant United States Attorneys Frank M. Pennington, II, and Sherri A. Stephan are prosecuting the case. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Victims or witnesses should contact local law enforcement or dial 911 immediately if they believe they are being victimized. For further information or to provide tips, visit this link.