Texas Missionary Sentenced for Sexual Abuse
A Texas Christian missionary, Daniel Sabara, 70, faces a lengthy prison term following his guilty plea for continuously trafficking and abusing young boys. His actions came to light when he preached troubling lessons about “nudity as unity.” In a recent ruling, he received a 30-year sentence without the chance for parole, which effectively means he may spend the rest of his life behind bars.
Judge Susan Kelly expressed disapproval of his actions as she handed down the sentence, underscoring the serious nature of the offenses. As McLennan County District Attorney Josh Tetens noted, “I don’t think he’ll ever see the light of day again,” emphasizing the case’s significance in the pursuit of justice.
Sabara, who had been affiliated with Chi Alpha Campus Mission, was described by some as “the holiest man alive,” a label that seems deeply ironic now. His criminal behavior was revealed through accusations of abusing two young boys in a case from 2023, where he allegedly used a sauna at his home to justify getting the boys undressed – an act followed by horrific sexual assaults.
A local pastor, who was a follower of Sabara, brought his sons to the missionary’s home in 2021. There, they were instructed to undress under the guise of a sauna session, ultimately leading to Sabara’s assaults happening right in front of the father, who faced no charges himself.
In total, Sabara has been implicated in multiple cases of sexual assault, including at least eight victims detailed in lawsuits and complaints against him. Notably, he was previously convicted of child sexual abuse in Alaska back in 2012 and served time for that offense.
During the sentencing, one victim, Joseph Cleveland, labeled Sabara as “deceitful and evil,” challenging the notion that he was anything but a charlatan. A group of other victims stood in support, sharing their own painful experiences relating to Sabara.
The Assemblies of God church, which has been criticized for allowing Sabara access to minors despite prior allegations, expressed relief at the conviction. They stated that they oppose his teachings and practices. However, they have previously claimed that Sabara was not officially affiliated with their organization.
