CHESTERFIELD Co., Va. - Rock Church International on Wednesday released a statement after charges against former pastor John Blanchard were withdrawn.
As of October 11, 2022, charges against Blanchard were withdrawn, according to the Chesterfield County Clerk’s office. The case was ruled as nolle prosequi Tuesday, meaning there is insufficient evidence in a case to prove the defendant guilty so the charges were dropped.
Blanchard was arrested and charged for solicitation of prostitution in Chesterfield County in 2021.
There is a possibility the charges could be brought back if prosecutors were to find more evidence.
On Wednesday, the church released the following statement. The church said it expects Blanchard to return to church duties in the future.
On Tuesday morning, October 11, prosecutors for the Chesterfield County Courthouse dropped all charges against Pastor John Blanchard. The prosecutor in a statement to the Court indicated that due to new information coming to light and lack of evidence, they will no longer be pursuing charges against Pastor Blanchard. This exoneration comes after nearly 11 months of delays and continuances. The defense attorney stated Tuesday that he was pleased with the outcome.
Pastor Blanchard has continually professed his complete innocence in this case. During this time, he stepped back from his pastoral duties at the Rock Church Int’l in Virginia Beach, Virginia, handing over the oversight of the congregation to Bishop Anne Gimenez and his wife, Pastor Robin Blanchard.
Following the proceedings on Tuesday, Bishop Anne Gimenez stated “We have always believed in John’s innocence. His humility and submission to those over him during this time has been a testimony to his character. He has spent the time in fasting and prayer and has invested much of his time in his family and education. We anticipate his resumption of church duties in the near future.”
The statement was also posted to social media.
