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A pastor tied to the House of Prayer Christian Church of America (HOPCC) has been indicted by a federal grand jury in the Southern District of Georgia on a series of child exploitation charges.
On September 10, 2025, the court unsealed a five-count indictment against Bernadel Junior Semexant, 35, of Hinesville and Savannah.
Prosecutors allege that Semexant enticed a minor to engage in sexual activity, committed sexual abuse of a minor, transferred obscene material to a child, and both received and possessed child pornography.
U.S. Attorney Heap described the charges as part of an ongoing effort to protect vulnerable victims, saying that federal, state, and local partners “work relentlessly to protect our most vulnerable citizens from harm and exploitation.”
The FBI echoed that message, framing the case as an especially troubling breach of trust.
“The allegations in this indictment reflect a profound betrayal of trust by an individual in a position of spiritual authority. The FBI is committed to pursuing those who exploit children and ensuring they are held accountable.” said Paul Brown, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta.
“We urge anyone with information about Pastor Semexant or others in positions of trust within HOPCC to come forward, your voice matters, and you may help protect other potential victims.”
If convicted, Semexant faces decades in prison. The enticement charge alone carries a mandatory minimum of ten years and could result in a life sentence. Sexual abuse of a minor carries a maximum of fifteen years.
The charges related to obscene materials and child pornography could add another twenty years each. In addition to prison time, the law requires heavy fines, mandatory restitution to victims, supervised release, and registration as a sex offender.
Semexant is believed to have served in multiple HOPCC congregations across the country. The church operates locations in Georgia, North Carolina, Washington State, Texas, Tennessee, and other states.
Authorities are investigating whether other victims may be connected to his work at different churches.
Federal investigators are now seeking information from the public. Anyone who may have relevant details about Semexant or other individuals in positions of trust within HOPCC is urged to come forward.
The FBI has set up a dedicated form at fbi.gov/SEMEXANTHOPCC. Those in immediate danger should call 911.
The case was announced in a press release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Georgia. You can read the full statement here on the Department of Justice website.
