Embattled bishop to make statement regarding allegations of sexual coercion

[oberliner]

Atlanta, Georgia (CNN) -- Atlanta-based megachurch pastor Eddie Long, accused of coercing young men into sexual relationships, will go on radio and make a statement Thursday following civil lawsuits a spokesman has termed a "shakedown" for money.

Long's appearances will follow Wednesday's filing of another lawsuit, in DeKalb County, Georgia, State Court. It was brought on behalf of Jamal Parris, now 23, who was a teenager at the time he joined Long's church.

The suit, which claims Long encouraged Parris to call him "Daddy," also names the church and a youth academy as defendants.

Allegations that Long coerced young male church members and employees into sex are "a case of retaliation and a shakedown for money by men with some serious credibility issues," Art Franklin, the pastor's spokesman, said Wednesday.

http://www.cnn.com/2010/CRIME/09/23/georgia.pastor.abuse/