Former Wisconsin Rapids Youth Pastor Sentenced to 10 Years for Child Sex Crimes

WISCONSIN RAPIDS, Wis. — A former Wisconsin Rapids youth pastor has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for sexually assaulting a child more than two decades ago while serving in a church leadership role.

Sentence Handed Down

James Lane, 53, was sentenced to 10 years in prison followed by five years of extended supervision, according to the Wisconsin Department of Justice. He must also register as a sex offender.

Lane had pleaded guilty in April to sexually assaulting a child in 2003, admitting that the abuse occurred while he was working as a youth pastor at Faith Reformed Church.

Case Originated From Abuse Initiative

The case was reported through the Wisconsin DOJ’s Clergy and Faith Leader Abuse Initiative, which provides a way for survivors to come forward. Attorney General Josh Kaul said the sentencing highlights the impact of the initiative.

“As this conviction shows, the Clergy and Faith Leader Abuse Initiative is continuing to have an impact,” Kaul stated. “Thank you to the courageous survivor whose decision to make a report has led to accountability for the defendant.”

Details of the Crime

Court documents revealed that Lane admitted to assaulting the victim in his vehicle while driving the child home. At the time, the victim did not report the abuse to either church officials or police, only coming forward years later through the DOJ reporting system.

Time Served and Registration

Lane will receive credit for 75 days already served in custody. Upon release, he will remain under strict supervision and will be listed on the sex offender registry.

The sentencing of James Lane underscores Wisconsin’s broader efforts to hold faith leaders accountable and to support survivors of abuse. For more updates on Wisconsin courts and public safety news, follow ChicagoMusicGuide.com.