MEMPHIS, TN (abc24.com) – He had sex with a 15-year-old girl while another teen took pictures. That's what Memphis police are saying about 50-year-old Orlando Wallace. He maintained his innocence when he faced a judge Monday, July 9.
What makes the allegations even more troubling is what many believe is Wallace’s day job.
Is he or isn't he? Neighbors, even Memphis Police say Orlando Wallace is an assistant pastor at Lakeview Community Temple Church of God in Christ. But the man who leads the church, Superintendent Jesse Lipford, denies it.
The pastor ignored our requests for an interview and our calls to the denomination's headquarters were not returned.
It's unclear how Wallace knew the teen and how long their relationship may have continued.
“Regardless of what has transpired, regardless of innocence or guilt, we have at least two families who are going through a lot of pain,” said Wallace’s lawyer, Latonya Sue Burrow. “We're still investigating and as with any case in general sessions or upstairs a client is presumed innocent unless they are proven guilty. Not until, unless.”
According to a police affidavit, Wallace waived his rights and admitted to having sex with the teen and sending her nude pictures and videos.
“That is attorney client privilege. I cannot speak to anything of that nature regarding the facts,” Burrow said.
Neighbors believe the facts are clear.
“I have a granddaughter and if I catch some guy messing around with her you won't have to go out looking for him because you'll know where he is,” Willie Kuykendall said.
Wallace is charged with sexually exploiting a minor and aggravated statutory rape. He's in the Shelby County Jail on a $50,000 dollar bond.
