For years, sexual assault incidents have been shrouded in silence due to victims’ fear and shame. However, a Tulsa woman, Harmony Bailey Oates, recently broke this pattern by bravely coming forward with allegations against a local pastor, Bertheophilus Maurice Bailey. Oates’ revelation, after a decade of enduring sexual abuse, has sent shockwaves through the community.

Oates’ harrowing experience began when she was just a sixth grader, seeking prayer from her father. The situation took a disturbing turn as Bailey, the revered pastor of St. Andrew Church, began to engage in inappropriate touching. This abuse escalated over the years, culminating in rape when Oates was 16.

Even as an adult, Oates’ ordeal continued. Bailey allegedly broke into her home and assaulted her shortly after she gave birth to a child. Driven by a desire to protect others, Oates decided to share her story on social media. Her post, which has since been deleted, detailed the trauma she endured and the devastating impact it had on her life.

The revelation of Oates’ abuse led to swift consequences. Bailey resigned from his position at St. Andrew Church, and was subsequently arrested on charges of rape, child sex abuse, and incest. Police investigations revealed that Bailey had justified his actions by citing his consumption of incest porn.

Oates’ courageous decision to come forward has inspired another victim of Bailey’s alleged abuse to report the incident to the police. The arrest and ongoing investigation serve as a stark reminder of the importance of speaking out against sexual assault and holding perpetrators accountable.