El Paso pastor accused of sexually assaulting woman during ‘religious ritual’

A local pastor accused of sexual assault convinced his accuser it was a “true religious ritual,” police said.

Noel Jimenez, 69, is the pastor of Iglesia Alabanza y Adoracion church at 8485 Roseway Dr in El Paso’s Lower Valley. Police said he was approached by a woman who was emotionally dependent on him.

According to court documents, the woman told investigators she was inside his office when he spoke of “biblical scripture” and advised her that she was “spiritually stagnant.” The woman said she was dependent on Jimenez because he was clergy and because of his authority and professional character as a spiritual adviser.

The police report states Jimenez offered the woman “anointment to regain her purity.” During the alleged encounter, which the woman believed was a true religious ritual, Jimenez allegedly fondled her.

Police believe there are other victims and ask anyone with information to contact the El Paso Police Department at (915) 212-4040 or Crime Stoppers at (915) 566-8477.

Jimenez was booked into the El Paso County jail with bond set at $75,000.