A Destiny Church leader has been arrested and charged with indecent assault after allegedly sexually abusing youths in his care.
The 29-year-old was released on bail after his arrest on Thursday. He was due to appear in the Manukau District Court on Wednesday.
"These allegations date back to at least 2020 and involve an individual connected to a youth group," said Det Insp Natalie Nelson, of Counties Manukau.
According to the NZ Herald, a young man's mother went to police with allegations of sexual abuse last November and, after the church was approached, the youth leader was stood down and banned.
The report said there were "multiple alleged victims".
According to Nelson, the arrested man was facing six charges of indecent assault which "at this stage... relate to offending against two victims".
"Given charges have now been laid, we are limited in providing further comment on this case," she said.
"We continue to encourage anyone who has matters they need to raise with [the] police to come forward.
"Any complaints will be treated in confidence and police will ensure support services are made available."
If you have witnessed or experienced sexual harassment or assault and would like to speak to someone, you could call the HELP support service.
Auckland: (09) 623 1700 or visit helpauckland.org.nz
Wellington: (04) 801 6655 or visit wellingtonhelp.org.nz
