Pastor Claims Threats Preceded Battery Charge

A pastor from Louisiana recently claimed that the man accusing him of assault had threatened his family, including threats to rape and kill them.

Tony Spell, 48, who leads Life Tabernacle Church in Central, allegedly approached a man on Hooper Road who had shouted insults at him. According to reports, the nearby news station KLFY referenced details from an affidavit regarding the incident.

During a press conference, Spell recounted that the confrontation escalated with the man yelling more violent threats, stating, “He said, ‘Tony, I’m going to rape your wife, I’m going to rape all your grandchildren,’ adding, ‘Next time you leave town, I’m going to kill them. So what are you going to do?’

Spell expressed that he feels a natural duty as a protector of both his family and his church. “You’re not going to rape my wife. I can’t let that happen. I have this weight on my shoulders—if I go away, my family isn’t safe. It’s my responsibility to respond,” he shared.

As noted by WBRZ, Sheriff’s deputies arrested Spell following this incident involving a 20-year-old male. He also mentioned during the conference that there has been ongoing animosity toward him and his church, supported by witnesses willing to testify about the threats made, including some evidence on video.

Spell implied that individuals living across the street have been persistently stalking church members. He remarked, “As a shepherd, I don’t let the sheep fend for themselves against the wolves.”

Meanwhile, WBRZ cited neighbors, specifically the Sherwins, who disputed Spell’s claims. They suggested that his accusations stem from unresolved issues related to a legal dispute that erupted following an earlier arrest where he allegedly disregarded health mandates during the pandemic. “This pastor is a bully who loses his temper when things don’t go his way,” they asserted, mentioning they filmed the argument.

Spell’s arrest reports indicated that the man he allegedly assaulted suffered multiple injuries, including a potential fracture around his right eye.

Spell’s lawyer, Jeff Wittenbrink, mentioned potential negligence on law enforcement’s part concerning their response to ongoing disputes, which he termed “domestic terrorism.”

Echoing the pastor’s sentiments, Wittenbrink emphasized, “They hate the church, and they’ve made it clear.”

In response to critiques regarding law enforcement’s actions, Central Police Chief Roger Corcoran stated that records show only a minimal number of incidents reported by Spell or his wife, asserting their complaints were indeed investigated.

Spell was charged with second-degree battery and, according to KLFY, he was released after posting a $25,000 bond later that night.