A St. Thomas pastor was arrested Wednesday on federal and local charges related to the alleged transportation of a minor for sexual activity, according to a press release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Lawrence Turnbull, 65, of Estate Mandahl, is charged with transportation of a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity, coercion and enticement, unlawful sexual contact, and child abuse, the press release stated.
According to court documents, Turnbull served as the minor’s pastor and youth leader and, on multiple occasions, transported the minor to different locations and touched the minor inappropriately.
If convicted, Turnbull faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
The case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Virgin Islands Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Rhonda Williams-Henry is prosecuting the case.
