A Brooklyn reverend with strong political ties, known for his commitment to mentoring youth, is now confronting serious accusations of having sexually abused a teenage boy two years prior, as reported by sources.
Rev. Edward-Richard Hinds, who heads the 67th Precinct Clergy Council referred to as The GodSquad, faced indictment on Thursday for two counts of third-degree criminal sexual act and associated charges. This follows allegations of him engaging in sexual acts with a 16-year-old on several occasions in December 2022, according to sources.
Authorities took Hinds, 48, into custody early Thursday morning following the execution of a search warrant at his residence.
The restrained cleric made his appearance in Brooklyn Supreme Court, facing serious allegations during the arraignment. A dedicated prosecutor from the Staten Island district attorney’s office is overseeing the case.
Disturbing allegations emerged in August when The GodSquad informed the Brooklyn District Attorney’s office and removed Hinds from his leadership position after an internal investigation, as stated in an Aug. 12 announcement shared by the faith-based organization on X.
According to sources, the cleric is confronting allegations that include two counts of sexual misconduct, forcible touching, third-degree sexual abuse, and endangering the welfare of a child.
According to sources, the cleric is confronting allegations that include two counts of sexual misconduct, forcible touching, third-degree sexual abuse, and endangering the welfare of a child.
Hinds, deemed a flight risk during the court proceedings, remains in custody with a bail set at $5,000 and a bond amounting to $30,000.
He entered a plea of not guilty and is scheduled to return to court on December 13.