08/01/2026
Christian Academy of Louisiana is aware that a former employee has been arrested. This arrest occurred independently of CAL, and the school has no knowledge of the underlying investigation. Although CAL cannot comment on any specific matter involving a former employee, the following summarizes the general procedures CAL follows when serious allegations are brought to its attention.
1. The school, in coordination with its security team, which includes law enforcement or retired law enforcement personnel, conducts an immediate internal investigation.
2. If the investigation substantiates the allegations, CAL notifies local law enforcement and provides all relevant documentation supporting the allegation.
3. If, after interviews and a review of all available information, the allegations are not substantiated, CAL maintains a record of the incident and the conclusions of the review. This information is also shared with local law enforcement.
4. CAL treats all allegations with the utmost seriousness and reviews them in accordance with the procedures outlined above.
5. If wrongdoing has occurred, CAL is committed to conducting a thorough investigation and notifying local law enforcement. This responsibility reflects our duty before God, and, as God is our witness, it will always remain our duty.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Statement on Behalf of Pastor Tom Shepard, The Church at Addis, and the Christian Academy of Louisiana
Counsel for Pastor Tom Shepard, The Church at Addis, and the Christian Academy of Louisiana is aware of statements that have recently been made and circulated concerning Pastor Shepard.
Pastor Shepard, The Church at Addis, and the Christian Academy of Louisiana categorically deny any allegations of wrongdoing. Because this matter may become the subject of legal proceedings, they will not litigate the facts in the media or through social media.
The publication and repetition of false statements can cause substantial harm to individuals, ministries, and organizations. Accordingly, all rights, claims, causes of action, and remedies available under applicable law are expressly reserved against any person or entity responsible for originating, publishing, republishing, or otherwise disseminating false or defamatory statements.
Members of the public are encouraged to refrain from sharing unverified allegations and instead allow the facts to be determined through the appropriate legal process.
Counsel is actively investigating the source and dissemination of the statements at issue. Anyone who has information regarding the origin, publication, or distribution of statements concerning Pastor Shepard, The Church at Addis, or the Christian Academy of Louisiana is requested to contact:
Grant L. Willis
Taylor, Porter, Brooks & Phillips, LLP
Telephone: (225) 381-0226
Email: [email protected]
Any information provided will be evaluated by counsel in connection with the ongoing investigation.
Pastor Shepard, The Church at Addis, and the Christian Academy of Louisiana remain committed to serving their congregation, students, families, and the community with integrity and will address these matters through the legal process rather than through public speculation.
This statement is made without waiver of, and with the express reservation of, all legal rights, claims, privileges, defenses, and remedies.
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