Bishop T.D. Jakes, founder of The Potter’s House megachurch in Dallas, Texas, is moving forward with a defamation lawsuit against Duane Youngblood, a former pastor and convicted sex offender. The case stems from accusations made by Youngblood, who alleged that Jakes sexually abused him nearly four decades ago—claims that Jakes firmly denies.
In a recent court filing submitted to the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania, Jakes' legal team pushed back against Youngblood’s attempt to have the case dismissed. His attorney, Dustin Pusch, stated that Youngblood’s motion relied heavily on fabricated legal precedents and misrepresented court decisions. According to Pusch, quotes and references from at least eight legal cases were manipulated or completely invented.
The defamation suit was filed in November 2024, shortly after Bishop Jakes experienced a health scare while preaching. He believes the public nature of the false allegations contributed significantly to the stress leading up to that incident. In a personal statement submitted to the court, Jakes shared how deeply the claims have affected him and his family. He said the emotional burden on his wife of 43 years and their five children had become unbearable, adding, “Every person has a breaking point. I have reached mine. I authorised this lawsuit because I can no longer remain silent.”
Judge William S. Stickman IV has already denied a prior attempt by Youngblood to dismiss the case, allowing the legal process to proceed. Youngblood has since filed a revised motion to dismiss, which the court is currently reviewing.
Despite the ongoing legal battle, Bishop Jakes remains resolute in his determination to defend his name and refute the allegations brought against him. The outcome of this case is expected to be closely watched by the wider Christian community in the U.S. and beyond.
This article is based on original reporting by The Christian Post.
