Conviction and Sentencing
A Rutherford County jury has found a traveling pastor and his wife guilty of child sex crimes after a two-week trial, according to reports from Baltimore News and WJLA. Benjamin Garlick, 35, was convicted on seven counts of aggravated rape of a child, six counts of aggravated sexual battery, one count of solicitation of sexual exploitation of a minor, and two counts of violating the Child Protection Act. His wife, 32-year-old Shaantal Garlick, was found guilty of two counts of facilitating aggravated rape of a child and two counts of aggravated child neglect.
The sentencing for Benjamin Garlick was swift. Circuit Court Judge Barry Tidwell sentenced him to life in prison without parole for the aggravated rape charges. Benjamin Garlick's punishment for the remaining charges is scheduled to be determined on Nov. 10, the same day his wife is set to be sentenced.
The convictions stem from an investigation that began Aug. 15, 2023, after allegations surfaced of sexual abuse against a 5-year-old that reportedly occurred over several years. As the investigation unfolded, authorities revealed that two more victims had been abused by Benjamin Garlick. Police also found that Shaantal Garlick knowingly neglected the child, harming the child's health and well-being, while assisting in the commission of the sexual abuse.
Investigation and Trial
Detective James Wilkinson, the lead investigator on the case, expressed gratitude for the work of the Murfreesboro Police Department's Child Protective Investigative Team (CPIT), which he said contributed to ensuring that the victims' voices were heard and justice was served.
"The Murfreesboro Police Department thanks all members of the Child Protective Investigative Team (CPIT) for their tireless work throughout this investigation and trial, ensuring the victims' voices were heard and justice was served," Wilkinson said. "The children of Rutherford County are safer because of the compassion, dedication and commitment each member of the CPIT Team brings to their roles every day."
The case has drawn attention due to the nature of the charges and the fact that the defendant was a pastor. The details of the abuse were disturbing, and both Baltimore News and WJLA carried warnings to readers before presenting the full account.
Next Steps
Benjamin Garlick remains in custody as he awaits the determination of his sentence on the other charges on Nov. 10. Shaantal Garlick's sentencing on that day will mark the conclusion of the legal proceedings against the couple. The case highlighted the ongoing efforts of local law enforcement to protect children and hold offenders accountable.
Both Baltimore News and WJLA reported the same set of facts, including the convictions, the sentences, and the timeline of the investigation, reflecting a consistent account of the court's actions.