BRAVE AI:
Tony Spell, pastor of Life Tabernacle Church in Central, Louisiana, was arrested and charged with second-degree battery after allegedly beating a 20-year-old neighbor, identified as the son of Scott Sherwin, on June 23, 2026.
Spell claims he attacked the man because the neighbor shouted threats to rape his wife and grandchildren and kill his family while Spell was working on a church bus across the street. Spell bonded out of jail on a $25,000 bond and publicly defended his actions, stating he had a “duty and obligation” to protect his family and referencing a Bible scripture about laying hands on the sick.
The neighbor’s family denies making such threats, with Scott Sherwin stating his son was merely checking if the grass was dry enough to mow. Police Chief Roger Corcoran disputed Spell’s claims of ignored prior complaints, noting that records show only one incident involving the neighbors in the past four years. The victim required five stitches for injuries sustained in the altercation, and Spell is scheduled to appear in court on September 15, 2026.
“...a 20-year-old neighbor, identified as the son of Scott Sherwin, “ ?