Prosecutor: More victims claim sexual battery by Wimauma pastor

MANATEE -- The prosecutor in the case against a Wimauma pastor charged with sexually assaulting a 17-year-old boy in Manatee County said in court Thursday more victims have come forward with allegations.

Juan Gomez, 52, is now charged with sexual battery and more charges are expected to be filed.

Gomez, a pastor at Iglesia De Dios church (Church of God) in Wimauma, appeared Thursday afternoon before Circuit Judge Edward Nicholas after being transferred from Hillsborough County where he was arrested Monday.

Assistant State Attorney Cynthia Evers said more victims have come forward since news of Gomez's arrest broke. Evers said felony charges she intends to file would increase possible punishment to a life sentence.

Defense attorney Benjamin Santiago told the judge Gomez's family, church members and his wife were in court. He has had ties to the community for more than 35 years, Santiago said.

"They are basically shocked over these allegations," Santiago said.

Gomez has no known criminal history, according to both attorneys.

Nicholas set what he called a "reasonable and appropriate bond" -- $250,000 -- given all the factors presented.

The investigation into allegations against Gomez began July 21 after investigators received information Gomez sexually assaulted the boy July 4 at a hunting ranch in north Manatee County.

Gomez was arrested Monday night at his home in the 5300 block of Vel Street in Wimauma on the Manatee County warrant for sexual battery.

Anyone with information on this case or other incidents can call the Manatee County Sheriff's Office at 941-747-3011, ext. 1909.

Jessica De Leon, Herald law enforcement reporter, can be reached at 941-745-7049. You can follow her on Twitter@JDeLeon1012.

This story was originally published July 30, 2015 at 3:37 PM with the headline "Prosecutor: More victims claim sexual battery by Wimauma pastor."