Salisbury Bishop Charged With Rape in 1991 Case Involving Minor, Held Without Bond
On Tuesday, September 9, 2025, King was taken into custody following a three-month investigation that brought to light shocking allegations involving a minor victim. The charges against him include:
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Indecent liberties with a minor
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Second-degree rape
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Rape by a custodian
King bonded out of the Rowan County Detention Center Friday afternoon, according to Vinelink.
According to Salisbury Police, the alleged abuse occurred back in 1991 and reportedly took place at multiple locations — one of them being the very church King pastored, Damascus Emmanuel Pentecostal Church, located between Salisbury and East Spencer, North Carolina.
While investigators have confirmed one known victim, it remains unclear how many may have been affected. Authorities are now urging anyone else who may have experienced abuse or witnessed inappropriate conduct to come forward.
One of the more serious charges King faces is rape by a custodian, suggesting that he allegedly held a position of authority or trust over the victim.
