Volunteer youth minister at Florida church accused of molesting girl during Sunday school

A volunteer youth minister and choir in Florida was accused of sexually abusing a 9-year-old girl during Sunday school.

William Richardson, 47, was charged with capital sexual battery after the girl, now 11, told a staff member at her school that the church volunteer had molested her over a three-year period at the First Baptist Church of Mango.

Investigators said they discovered Richardson had molested the girl several times, including at least once in the past year, during Sunday school services at the Seffner, Florida, church.

The youth ministries director said church officials had no idea the abuse had taken place until Richardson was charged and tearfully apologized.

“I'm so sorry that this happened,” said youth ministries director Nita Allred. “You trusted the children with me, and I'm so sorry. That's all I can say.”

Police said they’re investigating whether there may be additional victims, but they have not yet found evidence of other abuse at the church.

If convicted, Richardson could face life in prison.

Watch this video report posted online by WFTS-TV: