“Our prayers go out to those affected by this situation, and we ask all members of the Ohio Conference and all people of faith to join us in asking God to bring comfort during this difficult time,” the statement concluded.
Santos has pleaded not guilty to all charges. His bond has been set at $250,000.
If he posts bond, Santos must wear an electronic monitoring device, avoid contact with the alleged victim and her family, abstain from drugs and alcohol, and adhere to a court-imposed curfew.
Santos’ trial has been set for May 20.
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ChurchLeaders has reached out to Canton Seventh-day Adventist Church for comment and will update this article in the event of a response.