CEBU, Philippines – The leadership of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints of which American national Gary Lee Rohn claimed to be a missionary yesterday said the church has since severed its ties with the retired soldier who is now facing criminal complaints for alleged child abuse.
In a statement to The Freeman, Anthony John Balledos, president of the Cebu City Philippines Stake of the said religious congregation, said Rohn is “no longer a member of the Church.”
Elder Oren Peck, a public affairs missionary of their church, said Rohn has reportedly been ex-communicated by their church general headquarters in Saltlake City, Utah many years ago.
Peck, however, could not give details on the supposed ex-communication but said Rohn has never been a missionary of the church, although, he was an active member before he got expelled.
Peck said a member of their congregation may be ex-communicated if he or she is found to be involved in criminal activities and have committed direct violation of church policies.
Rohn is currently facing criminal complaints for acts of lasciviousness in relation to child abuse. He was also charged with rape.
He was placed under arrest last week in Barangay Talangnan, Madridejos for keeping seven minors. Two of the minors rescued during the operation filed the complaints against Rohn before the prosecutor’s office last Monday. – Fred P. Languido/JMO (THE FREEMAN)