Spiritual leader drugged, raped women: Prosecutors

Image 1 of 2

▼

Nigel Kennedy is accused of drugging and raping two women in Brooklyn, prosecutors said.(Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office)

NEW YORK (AP) — Prosecutors say a self-proclaimed spiritual leader has been indicted on charges he drugged and raped two women during religious ceremonies.

The Brooklyn District Attorney’s office says 51-year-old Nigel Kennedy, of Brooklyn, is being held on $35,000 bail after being arraigned Wednesday on rape, sexual abuse and other charges. Information on his lawyer wasn’t immediately available.

During one “church ceremony,” prosecutors say Kennedy started chanting and poured a clear liquid that tasted like alcohol into the women’s mouth. They say the woman passed out, felt someone on top of her, and woke up the next day on a bed naked.

Prosecutors say a similar incident happened at Kennedy’s home during spiritual reading. Kennedy faces up to 25 years in prison if convicted. His next court date is Dec. 11.