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Local Pastor Says He's Victim in Sex Abuse Case Save Email Print
Posted: 9:42 PM Sep 4, 2007
 Last Updated: 3:07 PM Sep 5, 2007
 Reporter: Mike Waterhouse
Email Address: mike.waterhouse@wsaz.com
103 comments Photos
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NEW: A spokesman for the Church of God's international offices in Cleveland, Tennessee, says Cook has been placed on administrative leave.

A high-profile pastor from Kanawha County says he's one of the sexual assault victims of another pastor -- and he's written a letter to the public.

Pastor Mike Lewis of the New Life Center in Cedar Grove sent a letter to local media outlets Tuesday night. In the letter, he says he was one of the victims of Sandy Martin Cook more than ten years ago when he was a teenager.

Cook was and still is the pastor at the Shrewsbury Church of God.

Cook was arrested by West Virginia State Police on Monday. He's charged with 3 counts of sexual abuse by a person of trust, and 44 counts of sexual assault in the 3rd degree.

During his arraignment in Kanawha County magistrate court, Cook said, "I'm scared to death."

According to the criminal complaint, the alleged crimes happened around 1994 -- and so far, three alleged victims have come forward in the case. All were between 13-16 years old at the time.

One victim stated he developed a close relationship with Cook -- and that Cook told him it was "normal for father figures to perform/receive sexual acts on each other and that the performing of such acts was part of growing up."

Another victim told police Cook performed sexual acts on him during two sleepovers at Cook's house, according to the criminal complaint. That victim told his parents, who reported the matter to the church; but the matter was later withdrawn during a meeting at church in Chesapeake "for conflicting reasons" and was not reported to police at the time.

A trooper verified the victim's statement about the meeting and the fact that the issue was withdrawn.

Investigators say the suspect's actions are similar in each case.

"Each of the 3 victims live separate lives and one lives in another state," as stated in the criminal complaint. "However, each of their allegations provide details of the intricacies of Cook's conduct that are exactly the same."

Police say they first learned of this case when one of the alleged victims came forward on August 3. According to investigators, the first person led them to Mike Lewis, and he led to the third victim in the case.

The criminal complaint states that a majority of the alleged crimes happened either at Cook's home in Belle, or in one of Cook's cars.

Cook is currently out of jail on $150,000 bond. WSAZ has also learned that he works full-time as the head at the the cardiac cath lab at Charleston Area Medical Center (CAMC) Memorial Hospital.

State Police say more victims may be out there. They urge you to come forward if you have any more information in this case. Trooper M.J. Napier is handling the investigation: (304) 558-7778.

PASTOR'S LETTER TO THE COMMUNITY:
Here is a letter Pastor Mike Lewis wrote to the public after he says he was sexually abused by Sandy Cook more than ten years ago:

From the Office of Pastor Michael A. Lewis
Senior Pastor of New Life Center
Cedar Grove, WV 25039

To Whom It May Concern,

Four weeks ago my world was rocked when State Police investigators contacted me concerning allegations of sexual abuse by a local Church of God pastor. My name was given to investigators by another victim who had suspicions that I may have suffered the same abuse that he did over a decade ago. For thirteen years I have hidden this secret in the deepest part of my being, never to let it out. Over these past years I have shared this secret with no one. Not my wife, parents, family, or leaders. I assumed that my abuse had been limited to me alone and that no one else was suffering what I suffered. My assumptions were wrong.

I have since learned that multiple victims have come forward seeking justice for what was taken from them by a person who was suppose to protect and guide. I now know that I was not alone and I have a right & responsibility to speak up. I would have taken this secret to my grave, but when Investigators approached me and asked the question… ‘Are you also a victim’, I could not lie. The fact is, I am a victim of sexual abuse, suffered at the hands of this so called pastor who is in serious need of help.

My abuse started around the age of thirteen and continued for around four years. I was too afraid to speak up or speak out. I was told by this so called leader that these things must happen to me in order for God to use my life to make a difference. As a young boy with no church background and not many possessions, I was suckered into this web of lies and deceit. As I matured I realized that his excuses for abuses were all trumped up lies and that my relationship with God was between me and God alone, and did not require a third person.

The realization of the fact that this persons sexual abuses were brought to the attention of other local Church of God pastors, as well as the State Overseer of the Church of God, and that it was swept under a rug and not reported to the authorities is simply appalling. To think that the abuse I suffered and the victims that came after me should not have been, had the Church of God denomination followed the law and reported this first allegation in 1994. They failed to follow the law and I stand here today, with many other victims asking why.

I give praise to God because unlike many victims, my abuse did not stop me from reaching my goals. God has called me to His work and I am thankful that God brought me through the difficulties I weathered as a young teen. My life is not messed up. I have the greatest wife & family on the planet, the greatest church family and the greatest circle of friends anyone could ask for, and it is all because I stayed focused on Jesus. The abuse that I suffered was simply a trick of enemy to try and stop the plans that God has for my life – and he failed, and failed miserably!

I was not the first victim to come forward in this investigation, and I will not be the last. My sincere prayers are with the other victims and their families today. I know what you are going through and I encourage you to speak up if you haven’t already. The way I view this situation is simple – the hard part is over, meaning that the abuse is behind us. He can never touch us again, and it is our responsibility to make sure that he can never touch anyone else again either.

Seeking Justice,

Pastor Mike
Sandy Martin Cook was arrested on Monday.
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Posted by: To the Cook Family, With Love on Jan 10, 2008 at 04:42 PM
As no one ever enjoys hearing negativity spoken about themselves, I'm sure that Sandy Cook probably does not read these pages. However, for those who do, and love & support him, I'd just like to say keep praying & trusting God & hang in there. Don't ever give up hope! For every rude, crass remark that has been made against Sandy, there are at least 2 or more people out there who love & care for him. Sandy, his wife & his mother are fine people. You couldn't ask for more humble, hard-working & dedicated people who love the Lord. And they treat others with respect. I only wish others would respect them, as well.
Posted by: Karma on Jan 8, 2008 at 03:45 PM
Dear Sandy Cook: At one point in time you told me that I was as the devil for not attemding church on a regular basis. You were my employer. Im sure that you remember who I am. I once told you that what you did to ruin my life with your lies and judgement that you passes on me would one day come back on you ten fold. Seems as though it has madde it 44 times what you did to me. Those who live in glass houses shouldnt throw stones. Apparently, your house was made of the thinnest glass because finallysomeone else has seen past who you make people believe you are and seen the real you. May you burn in hell for what youdid to these men. You have ruin more lives than mine I see. God will punish you for this. Just not lest you be judged. Read on in your bible and practice what you preach. HIPOCRIT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Replying to 'wondering' on Oct 11, 2007 at 04:09 PM
Nothing (new) in the media, but the case is still being discussed online, on forums. If you do a google search for: Topix Sandy Cook A Good Man Accused, you will find that the situation is being heavily discussed there, from both points of view. You may already be familiar with that. If not, it's worth checking out.
Posted by: wondering on Oct 10, 2007 at 11:58 PM
Has anyone heard anything new on this case?
Posted by: I agree on Sep 26, 2007 at 06:09 PM
I agree that a parent should be responsible, but a Pastor who is the Leader of his flock is responsible for his flock. As an adult and a Mother who is also a victim of childhood sexual abuse knows that every situation is different and yet the same. I come from a generation curse of childhood sexual abuse as my mother did, but the Buck Stops Here!! I also have a real close friend who was sexually abuse by his Priest when he was a young teen and His Mother does not know to this day because if she had suspected or knew, that priest wouldn't had to worry about prison. I read where Michael Bradley came from parents with drug and alcohol, which mean they had their own demons controlling their lives which made michael a perfect victim. you are right we can't change our past. So I want to ask all the victims How are you doing? I am glad that you young men have brought this out in the open, you have spared generations after us. Thank YOU. We are here for you Michael Bradley and the rest!
Posted by: I See Clearly on Sep 26, 2007 at 04:27 PM
Why sue the Church of God? Money can't heal internal wounds. Oh, that's right...no one has even MENTIONED suing the COG....yet!!
Posted by: Statutes of Limitations on Sep 25, 2007 at 06:45 PM
W. Va. Code §55-2-15. West Virginia has not adopted any special bright-line rules for childhood sexual abuse (CSA) cases. A victim who was a minor at the time of the sexual abuse, must file: 1) within two years he/she has attained age of majority and 2) within twenty years of date of wrongful act and injury. We need to come together and make a change in Our state's Statutes of Limitation for child sexual abuse!! The damage that sexual child abuse causes takes more than 2 years, sometimes it takes 10-20 or longer to be able to deal with the trauma of the abuse causes. I think it is time that we start putting legs on our prayers and come together for the sake of the children.
Posted by: TRUTH on Sep 25, 2007 at 08:35 AM
HEY ANNOYED - you are so full of something it is not funny. It is abvious that you have something personal against Mike Lewis. It is so funny how you are coward and you hide behind a computer screen. Why dont you be man enough to speak publicly? Because you are a judgMENTAL coward! These victims (many many victims) have more bravery than you will ever understand. You have the easy job of judging - and they were victims as kids and you are trying to victimize them all over again - but it wont work. You can judge all you want but God is the real and final judge and He knows who you are - and you cannot hide from Him - God loves you but He will not but up with your slanders and lies - YOU NEED JESUS - GET SAVED!
Posted by: Concerned on Sep 25, 2007 at 02:07 AM
Unfortunately, you cannot change the past, but hopefully, you can learn from it. The responsible adults in this case should not only have been the pastor, but the children's parents as well. Parents are responsible to God for how they raise their children, as they are gifts from Him. We cannot expect the church to do what is our responsibility. If this was as severe and long term as it sounds, surely the families could have seen changes in the behavior of their children if they were around them at all. Technology is good in public places and it is a start, but it can't guarantee children will always be safe. Most of these accusations say the abuse happened in a home or a personal vehicle, so just having video in the church and on church vehicles is not enough. We need to be more concerned with the well-being of our own children and not expect the church or anyone else to raise them for us. I pray that all involved with this case will find God's grace and truth, and good can still come.
Posted by: aggervated on Sep 24, 2007 at 08:00 PM
Hey annoyed: Not believing someone when they say they were a victim of sexual abuse is not the attitude of a responsible adult. Tragic is right when he says that no story of child abuse is simple. Just because you knew/felt certain things when you were 12 doesn't mean Mike Lewis felt or knew those things-especially when the person telling him was someone he was supposed to be able to trust. You need to put yourself in his shoes before you start condemning him. The technology at NLC is there to ensure that the things that happened to Mike don't happen to other innocent children. I'm sure the parents with kids at NLC appreciate that. I'm sorry you can't get over your personal biases enough to see that.
Posted by: Tragic but True on Sep 24, 2007 at 01:00 PM
Heath Stocks is a victim of child abuse seeking to share his tragic story to prevent the abuse of other young children. No story of child abuse is simple. Statistics show that 1 in 6 children are sexually abused by a family member or trusted family friend. Heath's abuse finally ended when his father, mother and sister were murdered in an effort to protect the man abusing him. Heath's story is sad and will break your heart, especially if you have known someone abused as a child. Heath is speaking out through the media, the internet and any other way he can to make us all aware of the prevalence of child abuse in our society. If only one child is spared the pain that Heath has experienced, his efforts will not be in vain. Visit His Web Site at: http://www.heathstocks.org/
Posted by: Blessed on Sep 24, 2007 at 08:53 AM
Annoyed I am glad that you were blessed enough as a child to never had been manipulated by a trusted friend or family or even molested I think that is wonderful, but you can't say what someone else will think you do because you have never been in their shoes. I don't know how close you are to this case, but there is more than the known three victims. I do love everyone that is involved, but I know the truth will be known and Justice will prevailed. This has be a living nightmare to us who loves the churches as a whole. What ever happens I know that MY GOD IS IN CONTROLL!!!
Posted by: annoyed on Sep 23, 2007 at 10:53 PM
To everyone who feels the need to condemn me for airing my views on Mike Lewis, please listen up. I was asked by 'Get Real' what my thinking pattern was like around age 12 or so (read the previous posts, once again, in case you aren't able to follow me). I answered that question. At 12, I knew that molestation was wrong. Also, if you kind hearted people who love Mike can take the time to figure on your fingers, you would find that if his molestation began around the age of 13 (which would have been around 1992), that that is 2 years before 1994. In his statement, he is blaming the Church of God for not taking action in 1994. Mike, you should've taken action yourself, in 1992! And as far as the other victim, I am not impressed by your statement to the media, either. If you're looking for sympathy, try again. You guys are all just 'a day late, & a dollar short'. And talk about judging! Mike Lewis is more responsible than I will ever be??? That's funny...you don't even know me!
Posted by: whatever on Sep 23, 2007 at 07:06 PM
to annoyed: How can you say you aren't judging Mike Lewis? That is exactly what you are doing. You are even judging him when he was 12 years old. I know you probably aren't smart enough to know how adults can manipulate children. And why all the comments about Mike Lewis? There are other victims out there, some we know about and some we don't. And how do you know the reason for the "fine technology"? You obviously don't know anything about New Life or Mike Lewis. You aren't even willing to find out for yourself. You just want to believe rumors that aren't even true. He is more responsible that you will ever be.
Posted by: Hurt on Sep 23, 2007 at 12:53 PM
Annoyed apperantly has never been molested by a person of trust as a child.... Father, uncle, cousin, Pastor, Preacher, friend of the family.... I don't know about you but when I was 12 I still like to play with barbies, and boys are not as mature as girl so what would that tell a person. If you never been in those shoes of being molested than please don't say what you would have done because you don't know. I have been and I know it is not easy. My prayers are for everyone who is hurt by this the victims and their famely, Sandy Cook's family and the CHURCH!!! When thou passet through the waters, I will be with thee; and thrugh the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fie, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flames kindle upon thee, Isaiah 43:2 Thank you JESUS
Posted by: annoyed on Sep 22, 2007 at 05:07 PM
Hey, Get Real..."Get Real"! At 12 years old, my thinking pattern was good enough to know that molestation was wrong. I also know that if a man had been molesting me who had no kinship to me whatsoever, I would've moved out of his home & back in with my own family. (Which is where Mike Lewis should've been to start with. Hmmm....) I'm not judging Mike Lewis, I am taking his own 'carefully crafted' statement which he prepared for the media (for what it's worth), & telling him, "Learn to be the responsible human being you claim to be, & quit blaming others for something you could have done something about!". And I really do not care about how many lovely ammenities & pieces of 'fine technology' Mike Lewis has at New Life Center (which is probably the real reason he has video surveillance, anyway), caring about children begins with being responsible, yourself.
Posted by: Get Real on Sep 21, 2007 at 01:49 PM
To Annoyed - you are some peice of work! As a child, do ou really think Pastor Lewis knew that it was happening to other victims. What kind of thinking pattern did you have at age 12 or so? People like you speak out of ignorance, not knowing the facts. The Church of God knew about this is 1991 and again in 94 and did nothing. The media is just reporting the 1994 case because that was the first victim to come forward. The abuse has been happenig to victims for years before and after 94. So stpo judging people annoyed. You make yourself sound like the dummy you are for stupid omments like that. The New Life Center takes unpresedented precautions in proptecting their children. BAckgroung checks, video recording of all the rooms and vehicles - let me ask you annoyed - what do you do to protect and serve others? Thats what I thought!
Posted by: annoyed on Sep 21, 2007 at 01:11 AM
Shame on you, Mike Lewis, for not coming forward sooner! You are a Pastor yourself, & leader of the youth who attend New Life Center. How could you have carried this secret to your grave, knowing that other children were in harm's way? It took someone else coming forward first, for you to speak out. If another youth would have become a victim (or if they still yet come forward), then you are just as guilty as the Church of God in 1994! You've been a grown man for 10 years now! Did you really care about the kids at New Life Center, knowing that every time they left the doors of your facilites they were in harm's way, too?? Some leader....
Posted by: Amazing Grace on Sep 20, 2007 at 07:02 PM
Since there is more than one side to this story, let's be fair and continue with this same passage. NIV Deut. 19:16-21 states: "If a malicious witness takes the stand to accuse a man of a crime, the two men involved in the dispute must stand in the presence of the Lord before the priests and the judges who are in office at the time. For the judges must make a thorough investigation, and if the witness proves to be a liar, giving false testimony against his brother, then do to him as he intended to do to his brother. You must purge the evil from among you. The rest of the people will hear of this and be afraid, and never again will such an evil thing be done among you. Show no pity: life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot." To be a witness is a serious matter - one must be able to give a firsthand account of the events. Did they see this being done to each other, or is it they all just have the same exact story of it happening. That's a big difference!
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 20, 2007 at 01:07 AM
New International Version Deuteronomy 19:15 One witness is not enough to convict a man accused of any crime or offense he may have committed. A matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses We have enough witnesses.
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 11, 2007 at 11:28 AM
Psalm 10:9 He lieth in wait secretly as a lion in his den: he lieth in wait to catch the poor: he doth catch the poor, when he draweth him into his net. Ecclesiastes 12:14 For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.
Posted by: member of victim family on Sep 11, 2007 at 06:52 AM
in response to victim, I did not just falsely accused you, if you read the entire message you would try to understand that I was responding to concerned, not a victim!! My family member was a victim along with you and others, I believe The victims, my point was "concerned" seemed to have a problem with understanding why victims has not yet come forth! My Heart just aches for your and the rest of the victims life. And no not shame on me! He was Questioning the time rame of abuses, as if only maybe it happened! I wanted him to see if he knew what HE WAS TALKING ABOUT!! The purpose of my comment was to tell the "Concerned" that noone was bragging to the media!! This is a time for Punishment for the pain and suffering that ALL THE VICTIMS have suffered. I pray for you and your family, as well as everyone in this situation! And I am Christian, and Proud Of it, and no I did not falsely accused! I ask a question, d/n make a statement, there is a difference you know.
Posted by: to concerned on Sep 10, 2007 at 09:49 PM
It is this type of attitude that keeps victims from coming forward. They are afraid of being villianized, when they are the innocent ones. I get a feeling there will be more, and how do you know more have not come forward already? I personally know 2 of the 3 victims that have come forward and I know it has not been easy, they are far from bragging about it. They are embarrassed and hurt about the whole thing. It takes more courage to come forward than you will every know. Again, we are forgetting about the innocent victims in this case and defending the pedophile, which is so typical in today's society.
Posted by: victim on Sep 10, 2007 at 09:36 PM
to the family member of victim... I did not say that anyone was just making things up! But you just falsely accused me!! You have no right to say anything about me!! I have been there... And justice was served on the man who done that to me... but did I go to the media... NO!! The law will find out for sure what happened. And if Sandy Cook is guilty, he deserves the worst punishment ever. Don't you ever accuse another person of being a pedophile without knowing who you are talking about!! You should be ashamed of yourself!! Saying you are a christian and making false claims on someone you don't know... SHAME ON YOU!!!!!!!
Posted by: confused on Sep 10, 2007 at 06:41 PM
Of all the film footage we are seeing in the mass media, NOT ONE SINGLE TIME did Sandy Cook EVER SAY that he was INNOCENT! There were no obvious attorneys present at the arriagnment shown on TV, but I must ask..... ARE YOU INNOCENT SANDY COOK? Tomorrow is your first hearing, and I am looking forward to see what develops after your time in front of the Judge. Do you feel that beause you are a pastor and a registered nurse in WV, are you above the law? Another question I have is: If convicted on these counts, will the state board of nursing revoke your license or only prohibit you from practicing nursing to young children. In my opinion, your nursing license should be taken away IF you are found GUILTY!!!! In sum.......PASTOR SANDY COOK, please look the community and watchers in the eyes tomorrow, ON CAMERA and state your INNOCENCE, IF YOU ARE INNOCENT! As of date, these words have NEVER ONCE came out of your mouth. God Bless your family and the victims because of your sin!
Posted by: HURT on Sep 10, 2007 at 01:52 PM
my husband and I attended SCOG since 1997, We love Sandy and Mike Lewis. It hurts alot to think that Sandy is capable of such an act. We know Mike and one of the other victims and we know that they would not say or do anything on purpose to hurt Sandy. Coming from a childhood of sexual abuse I know the fear and shame that comes with it exspecially when it is someone you are close to and love. It is like living two different lives. one is where you feel loved and safe and the other where you feel dirty and ashame. We are praying for everyone that is hurt and victimised by this. God Bless SCOG & The New Life Center.
Posted by: famiy member of victim on Sep 9, 2007 at 10:32 PM
to the response of concerned--my family member did not go bragging to the media about his abuse! It took a lot of courage and strength to stand and admit what happened to him. Are you a pedophile? How do we know that there is not more victims and they just simply do not want to come forth? A victims counld not be telling a lie. The big picture is that everyone is a victim in this situation. The victims, the pastor because of his sickness, and the church memebers for putting their faith in man and not God. The victims family and friends, for suffering the pain and humiltation with them. So you see concerned this is not for guts and glory!! This is a time for the truth to be known and then let healing began in a directions with everyone including the pastor. My family member just did not decide to wake up on day and to destory lives and not to mention the embarrassment of his own name out just because he felt like it. Come on!! Would You? This is the reason why he d/n come forth befro
Posted by: concerned on Sep 8, 2007 at 11:26 PM
It seems to me that everyone is missing the big picture... Did Sandy Cook only victimize these "boys" between 1990-1999? Was that the only time he decided to be a pedophile? From what I understand about men/women who molest children, they don't just do it for a few years. They do it for a life time! I'm not saying that anyone is falsely accusing Sandy Cook, but where are all the rest of the victims? And anyone that has been sexual abused in anyway does have problems. They don't live normal lives and they don't brag about what happen to them online or in front of the media!
Posted by: I'm Glad on Sep 8, 2007 at 01:59 PM
I am glad that Sandy Martin Cooke is scared to Death. He should be! Think of the terror he caused those boys. The great thing is that he is not in control of these victims lives anymore. Whats even better he's not in control of his own life. If I was in front of Sandy Cook I'd Ask,"How does it feel... How does it feel to know that something is causing the same fear in you that you caused these young boys?" For those of you who attack these men for telling there story... Your as guilty as Sandy Martin Cook. Think of how many victims are out there afraid to tell their story over the fear of being crucified.
Posted by: FULL OF IT on Sep 8, 2007 at 12:57 PM
To anon who aid that Mike Lewis wants to sue for stuff. What are you talking about? You know nothing about him and the New Life Center, as the whole world can see by your stupid coments. For your info, God has provided for all of New Life's building projects. They dont even ask for an offering in church. When you do the rights things the right way, God blesses. You need to get saved!
Posted by: To Questioning and Anonymous on Sep 8, 2007 at 11:36 AM
The reason that's all you've heard is because of the media and because his lawyers told him to shut up if they were worth a dime! The prosecutors would tell Mike Lewis and the other alleged victims that if they had any sense at all. Using the media to prove your case can backfire on you in a big way. I don't know any of these people, have never abused a child, would probably kill anyone I knew that did. However, I will say this, I know for a fact there are some people out there that are abused and never report it, then there are those who do, keep a low profile and prosecute, then there are those that are never abused who crave money and attention and will stop at nothing to get it. By the way, ask some of the former troopers termed by the current wvsp administration if they can't 'fix' any poly and how some cops and even prosecutors that fix high profile cases to get media attention. I'm praying that the truth does come out, whatever it may really be.
Posted by: TLC on Sep 8, 2007 at 07:49 AM
Unless you have been victimized by a child predator then you do not know how you would handle the situation. As for Pastor Mike he has a bigger heart than I. So for those of you that say forgive, stop and think about what you would do if you were the victim. Three men could not be lying. Even if it were just one man I would still believe him.
Posted by: Questioning on Sep 8, 2007 at 03:54 AM
The only thing I have heard from this pastor is that he's "scared to death." Is he even claiming innocence?
Posted by: mike on Sep 7, 2007 at 10:38 PM
not all preachers are bad most are good men out to preach Gods Word but a few are evil and use the office to prey on kids. I hope this isn't what happened here and that it turns out to be a big mistake but God know all and He will hand out punishment to all involved---worse than our court system can do
Posted by: stunned on Sep 7, 2007 at 10:28 PM
to: Praying for the Truth; Wake up and smell the coffee! SANDY MARTIN COOK IS as GUILTY as his sin! You are a sad creature to think that these ppl came foward just for kicks and giggles and money. As hard as it is to believe, sometimes the alligations are true. You are probably a family member of his (COOK) or one of his followers. Why pray for the truth to prevail when it already has? Pray for healing for all of the victims.
Posted by: anonymous on Sep 7, 2007 at 10:12 PM
From time to time Mike lewis has wanted to sue for other things in is own town when he does not get his way! Is this another law suit waiting because he needes funds to pay for his buildings? Perhaps he should have used his Biil board money for other postive things in his so called church! Get a job and quit trying to live off other people!!!!
Posted by: Michael Bradley on Sep 7, 2007 at 08:17 PM
I was a victim of Sandy Martin Cook Late in 1994, I reported to chirch officials who swept it under the rug, Saying that they would address this issue, had they done so we would not have had more victims. I would never make things like this up the things that happened to me scarred me, I have avoided church and kept my children from curch in fear, I would never want my children to go through the things i went through. I also lived in that small trailer park behind that bar with my mother and step father, my mom and step dad had their own problem with drugs and alcohol, And Sandy Martin Cook seen that that is why he preyed on me like so many others. I have not even gone back to West Virginia to visit frends or family just to avoid the horrifying memories(nightmares). The positive outcome of this will be that Sandy Martin Cook will not be able to ABUSE anymore CHILDREN. To those of you that say that you would trust Sandy Martin Cook with your own (grand)children i would not suggest it.
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 7, 2007 at 06:25 PM
If this pastor is stating that he is not guilty then I think that he should have a Polygraph exam. Hmm, the truth can come out then. I know that possibly it would not be admissable in court but the truth will come out.
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 7, 2007 at 06:19 PM
This is for the person who submitted a comment by Praying for TRUTH to prevail: Do you truly understand what is going on here? How do you know that these people are from fatherless homes and underprivledged backgrounds? Not all children that have been molested have that common denominator. They don't seek attention to be molested or do they not gain money. If a child is molested 90% of the time the molestor usually tries to blackmail them. The victims usually give their names after a process of healing. I praise those people who can come forward and reveal their identities. That makes it so much easier for children who have been molested to tell someone. Your attitude reminds me of someone who must of molested a child.
Posted by: Praying for TRUTH to prevail on Sep 7, 2007 at 03:10 PM
Why in the world are these so called victims giving their names to the media & releasing statements?? This should have all been handled legally. If the police wanted to help other 'potential victims' come forward, these 'victims' didn't have to reveal their personal identities to do so. It seems to me that the common threads they have surpass beyond fatherless homes & underpriviledged backgrounds. It seems they also have the common denominator of seeking attention, & probably, a great sum of money to help heal the "proverbial cuts and bruises". And if you were molested once at a sleepover, would you go back for a second sleepover? And if your Mother lived within walking distance, wouldn't you move out of the Pastor & his Mother's home and back into yours? Or would you, rather, stay & wait until you're 20 years old, and have a double wedding ceremony with Pastor Cook...all the while continuing to enjoy his financial help? People, pray for God's TRUTH to be revealed.
Posted by: anonymous on Sep 7, 2007 at 02:30 PM
Not everyone who is accused is actually guilty. I could safely say that 25% of the population in prison for sexual abuse/assult charges are truly innocent. People can say whatever they want to say, but it is up to you to prove yourself innocent. One thing that is wrong with the justice system is, they will let you go so far back in time, that it is hard to track down records or things needed to prove that you are innocent. Some people take this as a joke, never realizing how it impacts the lives of the accused and of their families.
Posted by: Wake Up! on Sep 7, 2007 at 02:26 PM
To all of you who say you stand behind this man, would you still do so if it were your child he did this to? If so I hope you do not have children! If he is found guilty he needs to pay for his crime just as anyone else would. A true man of God would not have harmed Gods children in this horific way. People of the church that knew about this years ago should have to sit in the same cell with him. For everyone asking what would Jesus do? He would not have molested his children! I do belive in forgivness if it is earned, but I belive there should be punishment where it is due. Do you feel that he should just walk away a free man. Trust me his victims will never be free of the nightmare this "man of God" has caused. My children go where I go, and I go where they go, and we trust no one. Sad to have to live life like that, but this is the world we live in. The only way to make it better is for the punishment to fit the crimes and people start paying for the crimes they commit!
Posted by: To Joe on Sep 7, 2007 at 02:20 PM
I work for CAMC Memorial Devision and from what I have heard and seen I cann't say for sure but I doubt he is still employed they are already looking for a replacement.
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 7, 2007 at 11:30 AM
I have to say that 90% of the people that are accused of this type of crime are found guilty. Keep in mind that pedophiles have victimized at least 65 victims before being caught. No prison term or counseling helps these people. The person that killed Megan Kanka in California was a repeat sexual offender. This constituted the Start of Megans Law for the registration of Sexual offenders. WV has a website- www.wvagainstabuse.org, this shows what a little boy went through when your are on this site look at Elizabeth's Victory. This is my daughter, she along with our family went through HELL. Knowing that her offender was on bond, Hopefully the prosecutors will reccomend home confinement while he is on bond. Trust me the detectives and the prosecutor will gather their evidence for an indictment and they will have their I's Dotted and their T's Crossed. It is devastating what these children go through. We need to keep the offenders behind bars. TO ALL THE VICTIMS I WILL PRAY FOR YOU.
Posted by: Shame on all of you! on Sep 7, 2007 at 10:31 AM
The Bible says judge not. Everyone is entitled to their opinion and their beliefs. Unfortunately, scandal convicts even innocent people. 1990 and now 1994, yep, I smell the lawsuit cooking. If my child had told me they were being abused, heaven and hell would have had to stop me from having them prosecuted 13 years ago. I wouldn't have withdrawn the the claim. I sincerely am going to pray for all involved. I agree, Heather, if it's true, it's horrible, and he needs to burn... if it's a lie, it's horrible and shame on you for cutting the rug under people who really do suffer abuse to make money!
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 7, 2007 at 10:30 AM
I think all these comments need to stop, this is a terrible thing and the only person people need to talk to about it with is the Lord!!!!!!!
Posted by: Ashamed on Sep 7, 2007 at 09:54 AM
I am totally ashamed that some of the people are putting Mike and the other victims on trial and crucifing them, and for those of you who say you trust Sandy with your own children... I would like to put that to that statement to the test. Let Your children have a sleepover with Sandy. Just your child and him. I only hope you wouldn't because your child don't need to be exposed to that monster!!
Posted by: GET REAL on Sep 7, 2007 at 09:40 AM
TO ALLEN - you need to stop drinking the coolaid that mr cook has been giving you. Pastor Mike did not want the Shrewsbury Church - he left a 1,200 member church in PA to come back home to Cedar Grove and start the work that God told him as his wife o start. As for his wife working and not Pastor Mike, do you not consider pastoring a congrgation of over 150 adults and youth, operating a 4 bus fleet for regional transportation, regional food pantry srving hundreds, community service outreach and more is a full time job? You need to get real. And oh by the way, no one gave New Life any building, the bought it from the Church of God denomination after they closed the building because they had no more members and it was in disrepair. Follow God, not man!
Posted by: a mom on Sep 7, 2007 at 09:27 AM
Having a family member who is showing emotional problems after abuse by a babysitter just 2 years ago, I am seeing firsthand the damage these perverts do to kids. I can't believe ALL of these people made up their claims against the pastor. There has to be a great deal of truth here. Like someone else mentioned, this further pushes me from organized religion. Too many people in this area fail to see that the pastor/ministor/priest is a HUMAN and is not God, and as such, they are not above reproach or sin.
Posted by: Heather on Sep 7, 2007 at 07:30 AM
Who are we to judge? If it is true its an awful act. If not true it is an awful lie. Any way it goes it awful, no one ever recovers from something like this the victims and the accused. I went to school with Mike Lewis and yes my children did attend both kid churches at Shewsbury & The New Life Center on tuesdays but I was always with them. ppl expect others to take of their children but the reality is in this day and age U cannot even trust some parents with their own kids why would u trust fully anyone one else then yourself. Yes a church (building) is safe but the ppl in makes it not. I am not here to judge I am simply here to do Gods will and listen and help in anyway possible. Just because some ppl are not nice dosent mean everyone is bad. But now the rummors are flying about both Sandy Cook and Mike Lewis they are bad on both sides and all I have to say about all of this is this. WHO ARE WE TO JUDGE. No one is found guilty or innocent YET! Please keep Love & understanding.
Posted by: a victims family member on Sep 7, 2007 at 07:02 AM
As a victims family member, I too sat under his preaching several times and at first I was astonished! My family member would not humilate his self and hurt hundreds of people just because he thought one day he would wake up and destroy lives!! Everyone is in shock! But we as christian people need to realize that who the victims are and what they have held within for years and not telling a soul. Daily, weekly,monthly, and yearly keeping the pain and hurt inside of them. For once, please put yourself in their places. It took a lot of courage and strength for them to break the silence, I pray that we support the victims and pray for everyone in this situation. Yes, pastor was a good, kindhearted man, but was the church members who think he is innocent behind closed doors like the victims was? The victims spent many nights at his house was the members there too? Was the members in his vehicle with him at various times with these boys? PLease pray for everyone involved!!
Posted by: always thought on Sep 7, 2007 at 04:27 AM
when a wolf walks in in a sheeps skin its hard to idenify.Sinners that say they rightous will burn hotter. He (sandy) should know this.
Posted by: very denied man on Sep 6, 2007 at 11:16 PM
I was one of the victims that had recently came foward. I have a message to Sandy's supporters and those saying they would trust Sandy with they're own (grand)children, and saying that members of their family wasn't touched. Sandy preyed on us because of our family's social Status and ties to the community. Just Like a Shark can sense which fish in a school of fish to prey on, Sandy preyed on us choosing less fortunate children. Have the members even realized that the men comming out grew up behind the coalminers lounge. Have they not noticed that they were from broken/ disfunctional families or was it that they didn't care about the white trash that grew up behind the bar. I know one member of the church didn't. I told the youth pastor(you know who you are) in 1990 who assured me he will take care of this. After months of no results I approched him and he told me that there is nothing to support that allegation. What happened to protecting the children and listening to them.
Posted by: shocked on Sep 6, 2007 at 09:46 PM
to kevin: I personally know one of his victims, and I can assure you that Sandy Martin Cook is guilty. If we could spot the bad guys Charles Manson, John Wayne Gacy, and the BTK. killers would have been stopped before they struck. As a christian I find it sad to think that this was (swept) under the rug. There is no doubt in my mind that he is guilty. My prayers go out to all of his victims. They have carried this shame for years when it wasn't their shame to carry. And yes, my prayers also go out for Sandy Martin Cook; if he has any humanity at all, he will confess his horrible crime and give these victims some measure of closure.
Posted by: Beverly on Sep 6, 2007 at 08:46 PM
Please do not further intimidate Mr Cooks victims by positively assuming that they are telling lies concerning their abuse by this man.It is a travesty that victims are not believed when they come forward to disclose their horrific experiences.It takes alot of strength for us to do so; then we are told, "You have to get past it"!!This further victimizes us and shows a lack of respect for us as survivorS of childhood abuse, and a lack of respect for our children who might be in present danger around these pedophiles!WE ARE HERE TO LISTEN TO OUR CHILDREN, TO LOVE AND SUPPORT THEM, TO SEE, HEAR, AND BELIEVE THEM, NO MATTER WHAT THEIR AGE OR CIRCUMSTANCE.Our justice system gives all the rights to the perpetrator and very few to the victim!We don't have to do the same.Pedophiles, as far as I am concerned give up their rights when they take the innocence of our children;when they rape,beat,maime, for their own wants.They choose this road,it should lead to two places only, repentence & prison
Posted by: Diana - an old friend on Sep 6, 2007 at 07:12 PM
Judge not unless you be judged. I thought you was innocent until proven guilty. I have known Sandy all of his life, he has always been an upstanding and moral person. I cannot accept how people especially his own church congregation trashing this man without all the facts. He has never been the kind of person that the media and "his church" is portraying him to be. Why did it take so long for all of this to be brought against him? I for one don't believe any of this garbage. I say stand fast, hold on and you, Sandy will overcome.
Posted by: anonymous on Sep 6, 2007 at 04:21 PM
While it is true that Sandy Cook was very involved in Mike Lewis's upbringing, it gives him absolutely zero excuse for what he did to him, and others. I know both men very well and can honestly say that this is the last thing I ever expected to happen. This is not a case of Mike Lewis being angry at his "step parent", it is a matter of a young, impressionable disciple of God being manipulated by a man he was supposed to be able to trust. The fact of the matter is, Cook used his high position in order to influence and manipulate his victims. He's obviously a very sick individual in desperate need of help. While I am angry that my former pastor could be accused of such crimes, I continue to pray for him, his family, and his church. But most of all, my heart goes out to all of the victims and their families. They have to live with this for the rest of their lives, no matter what happens to Cook.
Posted by: John on Sep 6, 2007 at 03:32 PM
I cannot believe that the so called parents who said they reported these alleged crimes to the church did not got to the police. You do not report crimes to the church. I don't remember the local church numbers listed for calling in an emergency. You call the cops or take care of it yourself. Never expect the church to take decisive action on anything. They wonder "What would Jesus do?" He would braid a whip of chords and turn some tables. The churches have become a passel of whimps. This includes all denominations. Catholic and protestant need to turn over the suspects and guilty parties, not deny it and take the suspects and guilty parties to other countries that do not extradite, as in the Vatican. I hope these allegations are not true. I have known Sandy Cook for many years. If he is found guilty,then he should go to jail.
Posted by: Brittany on Sep 6, 2007 at 03:06 PM
What is this world coming to? Some of the people who are looked up to most let you down. There are too many prostitutes out there to molest a child. Just pray the if he did this he gets whats in store for him and the child is able to move along well.
Posted by: PeggySue on Sep 6, 2007 at 01:49 PM
THIS is Exactly why I do NOT BELIEVE IN ORGANIZED RELEGION............. Me and Jesus got OUR OWN THING GOING,Don't need ANYBODY TO TELL US WHAT IT'S ALL ABOUT.
Posted by: Amy on Sep 6, 2007 at 01:45 PM
Let's not forget that God is still in control. Don't lose your faith in God or the church because of one man's terrible sins. He will pay in this life and the afterlife for what he has done. My prayers go out to his victims and also him and his family and the community. Look to the Lord for comfort in your time of need. He will supply it. Jesus said in John 14:18, "I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. John 14:26-27 But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
Posted by: Allen on Sep 6, 2007 at 01:43 PM
I see that a lot of people have already convicted Pastor Cook. I think that all aspects need to be investigated to include Paster Mike to make sure that these are not false claims by a person that was spoiled as a child and teenager and is now just throwing a temper tamptren because he did not get the Shewrbury Church of God like he wanted when he first moved back to this area. Who was given the building that his current church is in my Pastor Cook's Church. And who does not work but makes his wife work to support them. I think that the so called victims need to be investigated to make sure that they are not telling a story to ruin a good man. They need to find out why the one victim that brought up the first charges was suppost to have told the church that he had lied about it to begin with. As for my self i believe that Pastor Cook did not commit these crimes that it appears that so many has covicted him of already. I Would and do trust Pastor Cook around my children and I suppoet him
Posted by: Janet on Sep 6, 2007 at 12:40 PM
First and foremost, thank you to all the police officers out there that are doing their job and putting ANY and ALL child offenders behind bars where they belong. Pastor Mike, thank you for coming forward. I know this must have been very hard for you to do. Also, a big thank you for not becoming an offender. So many times people who are abused become abusers. As for the Church of God members, best thing for you to do is keep your mouth shut. Another Church of God Pastor not to far from you within the past 2 years was sent to prison for doing the same thing even to his own child and his congregation defended him also, right up until the end when he pled guilty to the charges. Wonder how they feel now? It just like a parent who will be the first to say my child didn't or would never do that. People, YES they do! That's why we have criminals!!! We need to stop defending them and start educating them. Let them know that if they commit a crime they will have to do their time!!!!!
Posted by: joe on Sep 6, 2007 at 11:59 AM
could anybody out there tell me is pastor cook is still employed buy camc?
Posted by: Concerned on Sep 6, 2007 at 11:46 AM
How do you spell L-A-W S-U-I-T? Had the church people acted earlier on this matter some of this could have been prevented. And we thought it only happened in the Catholic churches. NEWS FLASH!!! I know of a former Baptist minister who did 7 years in prison for doing this to little girls.
Posted by: Abused on Sep 6, 2007 at 10:22 AM
Let me say one thing--I was sexually abused by my grandfather as a child, and that has followed me throughout my life, and affected me in ways I cannot begin to explain. It has scarred me beyond repair, and I will never be OK with it. So for those of you upholding what this man has done, think about what he has taken from so many innocent people, and then try to say we all need to embrace and forgive him...I don't think so. He needs to turn to God for forgiveness, but he needs to be severely punishsed for what he has done as well. People can forgive, but they can never forget what has been done to them. They will walk with that through the rest of their lives. He needs to think about what he's done to others, and pray that they can be bigger than he is, and forgive him. He brought this on himself, and he needs to pay for what he has done.
Posted by: Just Me on Sep 6, 2007 at 09:45 AM
There are a lot of sexual predators out there that like to hide in churches as pastors, deacons, etc...There are also a lot of churches that like to "handle things" within their own ranks and not in the "world". Unfortunately, this means the problem gets sweep under the rug....the crime offender goes free and the victim, who is generally shunned, isn't the last victim. The predators can be of various kinds also. They can actually do physical crimes, harrassment or other types of crimes. It is a shame that Christians protect evildoers!!!!
Posted by: Linda on Sep 6, 2007 at 08:48 AM
Nobody is blaming his wife or family for what he has done, and I would say that most feel extremely sorry for her for enduring what she has to go through because of this. However, I have to agree with Al--how in the world were 44 counts made up, and how could anyone think this is a grudge match against this man? His is a repulsive sickness, and the man needs to be stopped by whatever means it takes to do so. If he apparently can't control himself, then let the law do so for him. Come on people, quit putting your head in the sand, and let's get at least one pedofile off the streets to protect our children. Also, to those who knew about it and did nothing--shame on you. You too will answer some day for not protecting his victims. He's sick and twisted to do what he has done, and he needs to atone for it now. Unfortunately, others will continue to suffer for the rest of their lives because of him...what about them?
Posted by: Anon on Sep 6, 2007 at 08:30 AM
To "Concerned" did you stop to think before making the statement that mike was just another child angry at his "parent" - that Mike didn't come forward first - another victim gave his name to the police - it was only after he was contacted that he DID NOT LIE and told the truth about the sick and twisted things this so called "parent and pastor" did to him - good grief, what if this was YOUR child he did this too??? Would it still sound too fishy for you?????
Posted by: One who remembers on Sep 6, 2007 at 06:19 AM
It never ceases to amazed me how people try to make villans out of the victims of crimes. I take my hat off to the young minister that came forward, as well as the investigating officer and the media. I remember these same arguments during the latter 80's with the investigations of both Bakker and Swaggart. (I have close to 30 years experience in the ministry.) I would encourage any other victims to come forward. Most people have