Victim Testifies Against Alleged Abuser in Court
Joseph Cleveland delivered a poignant victim impact statement in court, addressing Daniel Savala, who has been accused of serious misconduct. Struggling to contain his emotions, Cleveland described how Savala exploited his search for paternal guidance during his teenage years, calling him a “deceitful and evil” predator.
Allegations of Abuse Over a Decade
Cleveland accused Savala of grooming and sexually abusing him for a decade, beginning in 2004 when he was just 15 years old. He firmly asserted, “You are not the ‘holiest man alive.’ You are not a man of God, but rather a charlatan.”
Sabara’s Rise in Religious Circles
Daniel Savala, known as Sabara, garnered a reputation within Pentecostal circles as a traveling missionary. His influence grew significantly at Sam Houston State University’s Chi Alpha, where he became regarded as a prominent spiritual authority. Despite his lack of formal training, he fostered a culture of unquestioning obedience to spiritual leaders among his followers, many of whom went on to start Chi Alpha chapters across Texas and beyond.
Continued Abuse Allegations
According to numerous accusers, Savala perpetuated his abusive behavior even after the allegations came to light, often persuading victims that sexual encounters were divinely sanctioned. This manipulation created an environment where many remained silent.
Opportunities for Intervention Ignored
In 2012, church leaders had a critical opportunity to intervene when Savala faced indictment in Alaska for sexually abusing young boys during his tenure as a youth pastor. Instead of taking action, Chi Alpha leaders in Texas chose to support him, posting bail and hiring a lawyer for his defense. Following his guilty plea and a brief prison sentence, he was allowed to return to teaching students.
Whistleblowers Raise Alarms
Over the last decade, at least six individuals alerted Assemblies of God officials in Texas and the organization’s national headquarters about the risks posed by exposing convicted sex offenders to students. These whistleblowers reported their concerns through emails and phone calls, only to often be dismissed or ignored, as reported by NBC News.
Public Advocacy and Legal Repercussions
Several whistleblowers, including former Chi Alpha member Ron Bloomingkemper Jr., have come forward, sharing their experiences of coercion into sexual acts by Sabara. In 2023, they launched an online platform to consolidate accusations against Savala and other Chi Alpha leaders. This initiative has led to significant consequences, including criminal charges against Sabara and some of his associates, lawsuits from accusers, and the dismissal of multiple Chi Alpha leaders.
Calls for Accountability and Church Response
Bloomingkemper, attending the hearing, expressed hope that Savala’s conviction marks a move toward greater accountability within the church’s structure. He emphasized that this issue extends beyond a single individual and points to a system that enabled manipulation and abuse.
Church’s Response and Ongoing Concerns
The General Council of the Assemblies of God, the sect’s governing body, did not comment on the current accusations but previously stated that Savala was never a recognized minister. In 2018, they warned Chi Alpha leaders against him. Five years later, the church claimed to have taken necessary actions following reports of abuse, including the dismissal of at least six ministers linked to Savala. While they maintain a commitment to child protection, advocates stress that ongoing vigilance and reform are essential.
Victim Impact and A Call for Forgiveness
During the hearing, Cleveland, now 37, articulated the lasting pain inflicted upon him and shared his commitment to forgiveness, not for Savala’s sake, but as an act of personal resolve grounded in faith. He encapsulated his sentiments by stating, “God is better than you. God is better than the church that sheltered you.”
Suzanne Gamboa reported from Waco, while Mike Hixenbaugh contributed from Washington, DC.
