The U.S. Marshals have made an arrest in a long-standing case involving allegations of underage rape and molestation. Pastor Joseph Lyle Campbell, an Oklahoma minister, was apprehended in Elkland, Missouri, following an investigation that spanned several decades.
Background on Pastor Joseph Lyle Campbell
Campbell is a Pentecostal preacher who previously led children’s ministries at Eastland Assembly of God in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He later founded the non-denominational Lakeside Family Worship in the Missouri Ozarks. Allegations against him date back to the 1970s, involving multiple victims over more than 40 years.
Details of the Arrest
The arrest was executed by the U.S. Marshals Northern Oklahoma Violent Crimes Task Force, in conjunction with the U.S. Marshals Western District of Missouri and the Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office. The task force had gathered intelligence indicating Campbell’s presence in the Springfield, Missouri, area.
Investigation and Coordination
Following the development of leads, the Western District of Missouri conducted interviews that led to the successful location and arrest of Campbell in Elkland. U.S. Marshal Clayton Johnson expressed hope that this arrest would provide closure for the victims involved.
Collaborative Efforts
The operation to apprehend Campbell involved multiple agencies, reflecting a collaborative approach to addressing violent crimes in Oklahoma and Missouri. The agencies involved included:
- U.S. Marshals Northern Oklahoma Violent Crimes Task Force
- U.S. Marshals Western District of Missouri
- Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office
The ongoing effort by law enforcement signals a commitment to addressing decades of abuse and supporting the victims seeking justice.
