New Orleans Pastor Guilty of Molesting Teen Boys Faces Decades in Prison 2026

A suburban New Orleans pastor has been convicted of sexually abusing two teenage boys, marking the third time Terry Reed has faced judgment for preying on minors. The 66-year-old religious leader used biblical scripture to manipulate and normalize his predatory behavior, according to Louisiana prosecutors. This case has reignited public concern over spiritual authority figures who exploit their positions to harm vulnerable youth.

The Conviction and Charges

On May 6, 2026, a Jefferson Parish jury deliberated for less than an hour before finding Terry Reed guilty on two counts each of third-degree rape and molestation of a juvenile. The verdict came after testimony revealed Reed had abused two 16-year-old boys who moved into his home, citing scripture to justify his actions. Prosecutors called him “the worst kind of predator” for using faith as a weapon of manipulation.

Reed’s sentencing is tentatively set for June 18, 2026, before Judge Raymond Steib. He faces up to 25 years for each third-degree rape conviction and between five and 40 years for each molestation charge. Given his prior convictions, a lengthy prison term is widely expected.

A History of Abuse

This conviction is Reed’s third for sexual offenses against minors. He pleaded guilty in 1997 to indecent behavior with a juvenile and again in 2017 to molestation, receiving probation both times. In the 2017 case, he told his victim that submitting to certain acts was necessary “to fight off demons.” Despite this record, he continued ministering from his home in Terrytown, Louisiana, until his 2023 arrest.

Prosecutors noted a disturbing pattern: Reed targeted “very, very troubled boys who don’t have a father figure in their lives.” According to the Jefferson Parish District Attorney’s Office, Reed admitted being a sex offender upon arrest but claimed medical ailments left him celibate for a decade. He also argued the abuse occurred after the victims reached Louisiana’s age of consent (17), a claim the jury rejected.

How the Abuse Unfolded

The first victim moved into Reed’s home in August 2021 at age 16 after a strained relationship with his mother. Reed abused him multiple times before the teen reported it, leading to the pastor’s 2023 arrest. A second victim then came forward, detailing abuse that began in May 2011 when he also moved in at age 16.

Both victims testified that Reed used biblical verses to normalize the abuse, creating a toxic environment of spiritual coercion. The jury heard how Reed presented himself as a saintly figure to his congregation, some of whom testified on his behalf, while privately preying on vulnerable boys.

Legal and Social Implications

This case highlights the vulnerability of minors in religious settings where authority figures are often trusted without question. According to a 2023 report by the National Center for Victims of Crime, spiritual leaders who abuse minors frequently exploit their victims’ trust and isolation. Louisiana law requires mandatory reporting of suspected child abuse, yet Reed’s crimes went undetected for years.

Legal experts note that Reed’s prior convictions should have triggered stricter monitoring. The case has prompted calls for background checks and mandatory reporting training for all religious organizations in the state. The Jefferson Parish District Attorney’s Office emphasized that the verdict sends a message: no one is above the law, regardless of their religious title.

FAQ

What was Terry Reed convicted of?

Terry Reed was found guilty of two counts of third-degree rape and two counts of molestation of a juvenile. The charges stem from abusing two 16-year-old boys who moved into his home.

How many times has Reed been convicted of sex crimes?

This is Reed’s third conviction. He pleaded guilty to indecent behavior with a juvenile in 1997 and to molestation of a juvenile in 2017, receiving probation in both cases.

What sentence does Reed face?

Reed could receive up to 25 years for each third-degree rape conviction and between five and 40 years for each molestation conviction. His sentencing is scheduled for June 18, 2026.