MOLESTATION CHARGES SHOCK MISSISSIPPI TOWN

Valley of the Kings Church patriarch David Earl King, 66, and Nathan Paul King, 32, believed to be King's adopted son, were indicted in April on charges of sexual battery, conspiracy to commit sexual battery and contributing to the delinquency of a minor.  The group's self-appointed pastor was arrested in March, accused of molesting a 14 year old boy.  The boy's parents claim the Kings sexually abused their son and threatened to castrate him if he spoke of it.  The indictment includes a second possible victim, identified as an 11 year old boy who alleges Nathan King attempted to have sex with him.  Since the arrest, at least eight people from Texas, Louisiana and Mississippi have come forward, alleging sexual abuse by David King and church followers.  Some allegations date back decades.  A third man, Gary Lynn Bates, 21, has been arrested on related charges.  All three have pleaded innocent.  The Kings were denied bond and remain jailed.

(Jayess, Mississippi)