Evangelist Richard Roberts Spared Jail Time; Given Probation for Drunk Driving
Evangelist Richard Roberts has been spared jail time but given an 18-month probation after pleading guilty on Tuesday to a misdemeanor charge of drunk driving at a Tulsa County, Okla., court.
Roberts, who is the son of televangelist Oral Roberts and has previously served as president of Oral Roberts University, was arrested on Jan. 24 in Oklahoma for speeding and suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol. The incident occurred after midnight on the Creek Turnpike west of U.S. 169, where the evangelist was stopped by troopers for allegedly driving at 93 mph in a 65 mph zone in his black Mercedes.
Roberts could have the case dismissed without a conviction if he successfully completes his probation, Tulsa World reported. He is also required to pay $1,532 in fees, assessments and court costs. The former Oral Roberts University president will have to undergo 56 hours of community service, as well as attend a drug and alcohol assessment along with a DUI school and a victims' impact panel.
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According to police reports, Roberts was tested at the Jenks Police Department where it was determined that his blood-alcohol level was .03 percent above the legal limit, measuring at .11 percent.
The 63-year-old chairman and CEO of the Oral Roberts Evangelistic Association was released later that day on $1,100 bond.
Roberts resigned as university president in 2007 amid allegations that he and his family misused school and ministry resources, but was still given the honorary title of president emeritus in 2008. Back in January amid news of Roberts' arrest, current ORU president Mark Rutland offered prayers of support for his family.
"My heart goes out to Richard Roberts and the entire Roberts family. Richard served here for many years and he is in our prayers," he said. "Our God is a God of mercy and compassion, and ORU is a place of healing love. I am thankful that here at Oral Roberts University we are building Spirit-empowered leaders to impact their world for Jesus Christ."
