WILMINGTON, NC (WECT) – A preacher from Wilmington was in court Wednesday for multiple sex offenses.
According to the state, 54-year-old Thomas Archie Wiggins made a confession regarding the charges that allegedly took place in 1998 of five counts of first degree sex offenses and five counts of indecent liberties with a minor
Signs of abuse
Both locally and nationally, it seems more cases of possible sexual abuse are unfolding.
While there are no surefire signs to tell whether or not a child has been molested, parents should look for anything out of the ordinary. In particular, some things that should raise questions include:
• Changes in a child's sleep patterns
• Changes in their hygiene or eating habits
• Being fearful of people or places
• Showing increased anxiety and misbehaving
Many parents typically do teach their kids about abuse, but they tend to make a common mistake -- they make the abuser out to be a stranger.
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The charges stem from allegations of a boy who was 14 years old at the time of the incident. According to prosecutors, another witness has come forward since the story made headlines.
Wednesday, Wiggins had the support of many while in court.
"He's been a good friend, and I know nothing negative to say about him and every time I've dealt with him, he's been positive and he's my friend," said longtime friend of Wiggins, Linwood Nesbitt. "So, I'm going to support him."
Wiggins posted bond hours after his arrest. A judge told Wiggins Wednesday that he is not allowed to be around children or contact the victims and witnesses.
Prosecutors wanted the judge to revoke Wiggins' passport and give him an electronic monitor device because they were afraid the preacher would try to flee the area. Wiggins' attorney, Alex Hall, convinced the judge otherwise. The judge did say if more charges come out, he will reevaluate the circumstances.
Hall said he could not discuss Wiggins' confession. Supporters of Wiggins say the allegations come as a surprise.
"Everybody's just in shock," said Nesbitt. "We don't know what to think. Don't know any of the details or circumstances. So we're going to pray for everybody involved."
Wiggins is expected to appear in court again December 15.
He is listed as the preacher and superintendent at the Faith Temple Church of God in Christ, located at 1119 S. Fourth Street in Wilmington.
We reached out to other Wiggins' supporters, but they ignored our questions.
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