Pastor Tony Spell of Life Tabernacle Church in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, was arrested Tuesday and charged with second-degree battery after a video showed him repeatedly striking a 20-year-old neighbor during an altercation near the church. Local reports indicated the neighbor swung first before Spell responded.
After posting a $25,000 bond, Spell told his congregation that he believed his actions fulfilled Mark 16:18 and said he did not believe he needed to repent. At a news conference, Spell and his attorney, Jeffrey Wittenbrink, said the neighbor was part of a group that has harassed the church for years despite repeated complaints to law enforcement.
Spell alleged the man threatened to rape his wife and grandchildren and to kill members of his family. He also said church members, who come from 27 countries and include recovering addicts, have endured racial slurs, intimidation, and threats.
Wittenbrink argued that ongoing harassment reflected a failure of law enforcement to protect the congregation and maintain peace.
