Former Duluth youth pastor sentenced in sexual assault case

Jackson Gatlin, a former youth pastor at Duluth Vineyard Church, was sentenced Monday, November 26 for First Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct. According to St. Louis County Attorney Kim Maki, Gatlin was sentenced to 156 months in prison.

Gatlin previously pleaded guilty to the five charges against him on November 6.

“This was an exploitation of innocence and faith that will have a lifelong impact for many women in this community. While no sentence could undo that impact, this story has now been punctuated by the strength and resilience of the women who did not rest until Jackson Gatlin was brought to justice.” said Assistant County Attorney Mike Ryan.

Gatlin is still awaiting sentencing for his other charges.

The allegations against Gatlin date back to 2007 and allege he forced teenage and pre-teen girls to have sexual contact with him. In addition to the criminal charges, victims filed a civil lawsuit against Gatlin, his parents, Duluth Vineyard Church, and Vineyard USA. Gatlin’s dad, Michael Gatlin, was a senior pastor at the church, and his mom, Brenda was also in a position of power.

“The leadership of Brenda and Michael Gatlin fostered a culture of fear and intimidation, which enabled the exploitation of vulnerable children. Within that church community, tragically, their toxic environment and oppressive tactics contributed directly to the sexual assault of these women,” said Attorney Spencer Kuvin. “These girls felt silenced, marginalized, unable to seek help because of this hostile environment. Michael and Brenda Gatlin often used spiritual language and a fear-based culture to justify their actions, framing harsh treatment as a means of fostering growth or speaking the truth in love and dismissing the concerns as a lack of faith. This cruel manipulation only served to further silence victims and deter them from seeking help.”

Michael and Brenda Gatlin no longer work at Duluth Vineyard Church.