Indecency case dismissed against former Lubbock pastor

LUBBOCK, TX (KCBD) - A former Lubbock pastor accused of molesting a young woman several years ago had his case dismissed by the Lubbock District Attorney's Office today.

The news came Tuesday from Assistant District Attorney Josh Reno, who said the case was dismissed "in the interest of justice."

Nesmith was pastor of the Faith Assembly of God church in Lubbock from 1992 until 2009, when he was arrested and indicted for indecency with a child.  His accuser, now an adult, said the abuse lasted for four years.

Nesmith went to trial in December 2010, but the case ended in a mistrial when the jury deadlocked in a 10 to 2 vote, favoring not guilty.  A new trial was set to begin Tuesday, but when Nesmith arrived at the courthouse, he was told his case was dismissed.

"We were sure that we were going to trail," Nesmith said. "(The dismissal was) something that we were certainly praying for and believe in God for and we're very thankful that they were considerate enough to do that."

Nesmith says he is thankful that the District Attorney's office decided to dismiss his case.  He is also appreciative of his defense attorneys.

"I feel very relieved and very thankful that all parties involved worked with diligence," Nesmith said.

Nesmith continues to stand by his innocence and says he never committed the crimes he was accused of.

"We stand on our innocence and we are looking forward to the future, moving on with our lives and what doors will be open to us.  We're ready to move forward," Nesmith said.

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