Osceola County Pastor Eddy Noelsaint Sentenced to 30 Years for Sexual Battery of Parishioner

A Kissimmee pastor received a 30-year prison sentence last Friday for sexually abusing a parishioner who sought spiritual counseling from him. Eddy Noelsaint, 54, was convicted in July on four counts of sexual battery. An Osceola County judge handed down the decades-long sentence on two of those counts.

This case highlights the severe consequences for individuals who exploit positions of trust within the community. Residents rely on spiritual leaders for guidance and support, and this sentencing sends a clear message about accountability for such abuses.

The victim, who had known Noelsaint for years, addressed the court during the sentencing with the aid of a translator. She described ongoing trauma and suicidal thoughts stemming from the abuse. "I tried to take my own life several times," she testified. "Until now, whenever I think about what happened, I always cry. I always have tears in my eyes."

Prosecutors alleged Noelsaint gave the victim tea and pills before sexually assaulting her, exploiting his pastoral role. Assistant State Attorney Jennifer Synnamon stated, "He put forth this persona that he was to be believed and trusted and followed." Noelsaint, however, maintained in court that the relationship was consensual and disputed 90% of the victim's testimony.

Following the sentencing, State Attorney Monique Worrell held a press conference, noting her office secured a 70% conviction rate in sexual abuse cases since the beginning of this year. Worrell praised Synnamon's work on the case, emphasizing, "Today is about making sure that when someone uses their power and position to sexually violate another person, there are consequences."

Noelsaint has a 30-day window to appeal his sentence, which began last Friday.