PAWHUSKA, Okla. — Robert Preston Morris, the founder of Dallas-area megachurch Gateway who is charged with child sex abuse, made an initial court appearance at the Osage County Courthouse on Friday.

Before becoming a pastor at New Life, which draws 15,000 people to services, Boyd had been on the staff from 2001 to 2007 at Gateway Church in Southlake, Texas, where Morris was the longtime pastor.

In response, Robert Morris has filed a lawsuit in arbitration seeking financial compensation. His claims are false and do not reflect accountability for the impact of his actions on the community.

Robert Morris turned himself in to Oklahoma authorities on Monday, March 17. Osage County Sheriff's Office Authorities say the victim, Cindy Clemishire, was 12 when the alleged abuse began.