BELLE GLADE, FL – An unsettling incident has emerged from Belle Glade, where an 18-year-old man faces allegations of sexually assaulting a 12-year-old girl shortly after a church service. The incident reportedly occurred within a bathroom stall at New Life Tabernacle.
Church leaders confirmed that the suspect, Derek Zimmerman, is a member of the congregation, though he holds no official position there. Law enforcement officials revealed that Zimmerman had been communicating with the victim over social media for about a year, soliciting inappropriate photos.
The alleged assault took place following an evening service on August 13. According to the criminal complaint, Zimmerman encountered the young girl in the church’s bathroom under the pretense of cleaning it. He is accused of forcibly pulling her into a stall, where the assault occurred.
Community members expressed their shock and concern. Tan Williams, a local mother of five, remarked on the distressing nature of the incident, highlighting the fear it instills regarding the safety of children in places presumed to be secure.
Efforts to speak with churchgoers yielded little response, as those approached were unwilling to comment. The victim reportedly had a longstanding acquaintance with Zimmerman, having known him since she was eight years old. She is also friends with his sister.
Detectives noted that Zimmerman had been messaging the girl through Instagram, requesting meetings and explicit photos. On the day of the incident, Zimmerman allegedly hoped to meet her after the service; however, the victim had no intention of doing so and was caught off guard by the encounter.
The criminal complaint states that Zimmerman initially denied the allegations but later sent a message to the victim, expressing hope that their relationship would remain unchanged.
The case underscores the unsettling reality that places of worship, often seen as sanctuaries, can be the setting for such violations. Zimmerman is currently detained in Belle Glade without bond.