Inola Pastor Charged With Multiple Counts Of Lewd Acts Involving Minors Found Guilty

A jury found an Inola pastor guilty on three counts of lewd or indecent acts involving young girls Thursday morning, after closing arguments began Wednesday night.

The jury deliberated at the Rogers County Courthouse for six hours but did not come to a decision until after 12 a.m. on Thursday

RELATED: Jury Hears Closing Arguments In Inola Pastor Trial

Roy Shoop was arrested in 2020 for inappropriately touching several girls during horse riding lessons at Shoop's ranch, or while the girls stayed at the family's home.

Shoop was charged with eight counts of lewd or indecent acts, but was only found guilty on three.

Shoop's victims were in the courtroom during the trial, as well as for the prosecution’s closing arguments. Shoop also testified during the trial, and said the girls made the allegations up.

Prosecutor Joy Thort says this case should serve as a reminder for everyone.

"I think it's really important that the world knows that we need to believe children when they come and tell us that they've been touched or that something has happened to them," Thort said. "We need to believe them, and I'm so thankful that this jury did believe these girls."

Shoop's attorney did not wish to speak with News On 6 on camera following the verdict but did say they respect the jury's decision and will file an appeal.

Shoop is set to be sentenced at a later date.