WARSAW, Ind. (WANE) – When a woman accused a Warsaw pastor of imprisoning her for sex 27 years ago when she was just 16, questions were raised.
Isn’t the age of consent 16 in Indiana? Wouldn’t that go beyond the statute of limitations?
The Kosciusko County District Attorney’s Office said it is investigating the allegations, but could Pastor John Lowe II actually face criminal charges?
Former Allen County Assistant District Attorney Laurie A. Gray said the case could see its way to court.
Gray said a case could be filed for a felony child seduction charge. According to the Indiana Code, a person who has a professional relationship with a child between the ages of 16 and 18 and who influences the child and engages in sexual intercourse or other sexual behavior commits sexual seduction.
But is it too late? It depends.
Gray explained that the statute of limitations limits how long cases can be filed, but while that limit would have expired if the alleged misconduct had actually occurred 27 years ago, it could be lengthened.
When the state first uncovers evidence of child seduction, prosecutors have five more years to prosecute, Gray said.
Gray added that much of the proceedings will hinge on how the Child Seduction Act was read 27 years ago when the incident allegedly happened.
The Kosciusko County prosecutor declined to comment on the incident other than to confirm an investigation.
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