Samuel Vidal, Jr., 40, a Palm Bay pastor and past president of a Christian school, stands accused of improper conduct with a 15-year-old girl at Restoration Church of God International. According to law enforcement records, Vidal, Jr. was arrested by Palm Bay police and charged with one count of lewd/lascivious molestation of a minor.
Vidal has most recently been working at Overcomers Academy on Palm Bay Road. The arrest follows an 8-month investigation which began when the parents of the 15-year old girl reported the molestation to law enforcement.
Incidents such as this are a reminder that even in locations where children should be safe — such as a church or religious school — there are people who may pose a threat of harm to children. As a result, we must be vigilant in the supervision and protection of our children at all times. This is also an example of a brave child who had the wisdom to know the adult’s actions were inappropriate and had the courage to report this misconduct to family and then law enforcement.
Attorney Adam Horowitz is experienced in filing lawsuits nationwide on behalf of victims of sexual assault. You can reach Adam Horowitz at [email protected] or call our law firm at (954) 641-2100.