Youth Pastor/Child Predator NR11368kr

Los Angeles:  A 28-year-old youth pastor has been arrested for sex crimes against young girls in his congregation, and possession of child pornography.

On August 3, 2011, Demetrius Allen was arrested by LAPD Devonshire Detectives following an extensive investigation into multiple allegations of sexual misconduct with underage girls who attended First Baptist Church of Venice in the 600 block of Westminster Avenue. Allen was the pastor in charge of youth ministries at the church.

On August 5, 2011, the case was presented to the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office and Allen was charged with multiple counts of crimes against children and possession of child pornography.  He is being held on $1 million dollars bail.

Allen is an African American, 5 feet 8 inches tall, weighing about 210 pounds, and wears his hair in dread locks.  Detectives investigating the case believe there may be additional victims.

Anyone with information about this case, or any unreported cases are asked to call Devonshire Area Juvenile Detectives, Detective Teresa Pikor or Detective John Macchiarella at 818-832-0980.  During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7.  Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477).

Tipsters may also contact Crime Stoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone.  All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.”  Tipsters may also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on “webtips” and follow the prompts.