Authorities have sentenced a Mississippi pastor and educator to 18 years for sex crimes against children.
Police first arrested Daniel Paul Harris (45) in May 2023, charging him with two counts of sexual abuse, two counts of sexual battery, and one count of unnatural intercourse.
At the time, Harris was pastor at Olive Branch Church in Olive Branch, Mississippi. He and his wife were also founders of the Kaimen Center, which, according to its website (since taken down), instructs children and adults with disabilities in arts, sports, and academics.
According to the Olive Branch District Attorney’s office, Harris sexually molested minors on multiple occasions between 2015 and 2018 while acting as their mentor, pastor, and authority figure.
Harris entered a guilty plea in March 2024, and will serve out his 18-year sentence at the Mississippi Department of Corrections.
Although the number of alleged victims is unknown, court released documents related to five victims with names redacted, according to WREG in Memphis.
One of his victims came forward after telling a family member what happened to him as a child. After that, more victims shared their stories.
Upon his arrest, leaders at Olive Branch Church released a statement:
“Our church is committed to the safety and spiritual well-being of our congregation and community—especially our children. We do not condone sin or condemn people. Like you, our hearts are breaking for everyone involved in this situation. Please be in prayer.”
Harris is not eligible for early release or parole. According to The DoSoto Times-Tribune, he is also required to register as a sexual offender and has lost his eligibility to work as an educator.
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Main photo: Daniel Paul Harris
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