More trial dates have been added for a Garden County pastor and part-time sheriff’s deputy who is charged with sexually assaulting a teen in the church’s youth group and made unwanted contact with another.
41-year-old Bruce Neal was granted a continuance for a four day trail set for December, with the trial now scheduled for six days in March.
According to court documents, an 18-year-old and a 16-year-old—both members of the church’s youth group—told investigators Neal initiated contact through messages and arranged private meetings at the church in 2024.
The older teen reported that during a May 31 meeting, Neal, dressed in his deputy uniform, kissed and groped her, and touched her inappropriately despite her asking him to stop.
The younger teen told investigators Neal lured her to the church in April under the pretense of moving items, then made sexual comments about her appearance, locked the church doors, and hugged her in a way she described as uncomfortable.
Charges include 1st Degree Sexual Assault, Felony Child Abuse, and Tampering with Evidence.
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