Disclosure: State of Alabama-based writer. This article is a work from cited sources for informational purposes and is used with permission. No affiliate links are included.
In a candid interview on Larry Reid Live, former Bishop Duane Youngblood recounted an unsettling encounter with Bishop T.D. Jakes that allegedly took place in the early 2000s. The incident, which Youngblood says occurred when he was just 18, began after he and a friend had the rare opportunity to dine with Jakes following a sermon Jakes delivered on his own birthday.
Reflecting on the evening, Youngblood shared, “I was able to convince my mother to let me drive her car since I didn’t have a vehicle.” After dinner, it was decided that Youngblood would drive Jakes back to his lodging for the night, which was the home of a local woman known as Sister Jiles.
Once they arrived, Youngblood alleges that Jakes invited him inside for a conversation. The two talked for hours, during which Youngblood confided in Jakes about personal family traumas. However, the night took a disturbing turn as Youngblood prepared to leave. According to Youngblood, Jakes wrapped his arm around him and attempted to kiss him, leaving him in shock.