Ex-Coral Springs Worship Leader Gets More than 28 Years in Prison

A former Coral Springs worship leader was sentenced to 28.8 years in prison on Friday on molestation charges.

Russell Lewis had pleaded no contest in June to molestation charges for allegedly carrying on an illicit relationship with a then 14-year-old congregant.

Police say Lewis was assistant music and youth minister at Church by the Glades when he was arrested in November 2009 for the relationship with the girl.

Lisa Hughes, the wife of the senior pastor of the congregation, read an emotional letter in court that the victim had written, which blamed Lewis and accused him of stealing her virginity, controlling and grooming her for his sexual gratification. The letter also said that he had asked her to wear certain clothing.

"My life will never be the same, not only did he rob me of my virginity, I am still traumatized when I think of Russell," the letter said.

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Before the sentencing came down, the congregation gathered in a huddle and prayed together in court.

The 30-year-old Lewis apologized to the victim's family and his mother in court before he was sentenced. When he heard the sentencing, Lewis he put his head down on the podium.

Lewis' family stood by his side, claiming this was an isolated incident. His mother said he shouldn't be behind bars because he wasn't a danger to society.

"Russell is a good person, allow him the chance, he's a good person," said his mother Jacqueline Lewis in court.

Neither family made comments after the sentencing. The prosecutor said the victim's family was pleased with the sentence. It was not clear whether Lewis will appeal the sentence.