SPARTA, Wis. (WLAX/WEUX) – A pastor is charged with sexual assault in Monroe County. Online court records show 46-year-old Travis Becknell is charged with Sexual Exploitation by a Therapist/Member of the Clergy and Fourth Degree Sexual Assault.

According to the criminal complaint, a female told authorities she attended a revival at the New Hope Fellowship Church in Sparta in January 2021. She says Becknell was the pastor of the church and invited her over to his place. The victim reported she was touched inappropriately and was spoken to inappropriately by Becknell. She also reported receiving inappropriate text messages.

According to the complaint, the victim said she knew Becknell had done the same things to other women at the church. Court records show an initial appearance is scheduled for October 30th.