Bishop Eddie Long accusers Jamal Parris and Spencer LaGrande have broken their silence for the first time since a financial settlement was reached in the case. Speaking to Atlanta WSBTV Channel 2, the young men reveal additional details about their relationship with the Mega-church Pastor, which included how the touching and manipulation intensified throughout their relationship.
The two announced plans to release a tell all book that they hope will help other people recognize the warning signs of abuse.
The book could come at a stiff price if they decide to go forth with it. As apart of the settlement (rumored to be as much as 25 million) the 4 accusers were not supposed to discuss the details surrounding the case. Representing two out of the now 5 accusers, Jamal and Spenser said that they didn’t care about the money and that it was never about the money. At the end of the interview, Parris defiantly challenges Bishop Eddie Long as it relates to coming after the settlement money. “If you keep fighting me again, I’m going to embarrass you again,” Parris angrily says.
After news of the book spread throughout the country, Bishop Eddie Long released a written statement to his New Birth Members.
Eddie Long’s Response:
New Birth Members,
We have a long history of dutifully serving those in need in the local and global communities and we will continue to do so. We are committed to the calling of a strong, viable and relevant ministry of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Unfortunately, we are in the media again and people are wondering what I am going to say. All I have to say is what we stated earlier. All parties involved decided to resolve the civil cases out of court. The decision was made to bring closure to this matter and allow us to move forward with the plans God has for this ministry.
I will continue to honor and abide by my commitment of confidentiality and restraint as it relates to the resolution of the civil litigation and will not be diverted from the important work of the ministry.
I thank God for your faithful support of my journey to South Africa where thousands where blessed and more than 700 people gave their lives to Christ. We also were able to sow more support into the HIV/AIDS Hospice in Johannesburg that we partnered with last year. We built a wonderful bridge of relationships with pastors and community leaders to further establish the Kingdom and bless others.
I love you and thank you for your continued commitment and dedication.
Your Pastor,
Bishop Eddie L. Long
