A pastor from Tennessee, who dedicated years to ministry across the country, has been sentenced to life in prison after being convicted of raping a child. His wife was also found guilty for her role in the abuse, authorities reported.
Benjamin Garlick, 35, received his verdict on Monday in Rutherford County. He faced serious charges, including seven counts of aggravated child rape, six counts of aggravated sexual assault, and additional charges related to the exploitation of a minor and violating the Tennessee Child Protection Act. Following a two-week trial, Circuit Court Judge Barry Tidwell sentenced him to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole for the aggravated rape conviction, with sentencing for the other charges set for November 10.
Shantal Garlick, his 32-year-old wife, was convicted on two counts of aiding the aggravated rape of a child and two counts of child neglect. Her sentencing is also scheduled for November 10.
The investigation began in August 2023, when the Murfreesboro Police Department’s Special Victims Unit looked into the sexual abuse of a five-year-old. Reports indicate that the abuse occurred over several years.
Detectives later discovered two additional victims. It was noted that Shantal actively neglected the victim, which impacted the child’s wellbeing and facilitated the abuse, according to police.
Following the convictions, Lieutenant James Wilkinson, the lead investigator, expressed gratitude towards the Child Protection Investigation Team for their commitment to the victims and ensuring justice was served. He remarked that children in Rutherford County are now safer due to the team’s tireless efforts.
Garlick’s prior life sharply contrasted with the serious nature of his crimes. Before his arrest, he had been traveling as a pastor, primarily engaging with the Hispanic community alongside his wife.
Reports indicate that Garlick was involved with La Espada, a service organization for Spanish speakers in Murfreesboro. Videos and images revealed his connection with churches in various states, including Florida and Texas.
A biography from La Espada’s former website outlined the Garlick family’s extensive involvement in ministry, noting that La Espada was founded by Benjamin’s grandfather and that he had been active in the organization since at least 2015 under his late father.
Interestingly, Benjamin mentioned that he first traveled with his father as a child, feeling a pull towards missionary work early on, and later pursued life as an evangelist. Shantal shared that she met Benjamin at a youth conference when she was just 18 and expressed her desire to dedicate herself to serving God alongside him.
The couple was arrested in September 2023, and as the case evolved, a grand jury re-indicted them in March 2024. Detectives are still encouraging potential victims, especially within the Hispanic community, to come forward with information as the investigation continues.
Following the sentencing, Shantal, who had been released on bail prior, was taken into custody along with her husband. They are currently held at the Rutherford County Adult Detention Center.
