Minister Accused of Performing Exorcism to Cure Boy of Autism

MONROE COUNTY, IN -- A student minister faces serious charges after Indiana investigators say he committed a crime in the name of Christianity.

Police say 22-year-old Eddie Uyesugi, a pastor in training at Cherry Hill Christian Church, promised healing for a 14-year-old autistic boy.

Uyesugi convinced the boy's mother he could cure autism with an exorcism.

"Through prayer, casting demons out. She was initially in agreement in doing this thinking it was something authorized through the church," explained Monroe County Police Detective Brad Swain.

Police say the exorcism turned violent and that Uyesugi, under the guise of 'God's work', battered and beat the boy.

"Sticking fingers into the boy's mouth while he was restrained on the bed, causing him to vomit. And this happened several times. Family said that Mr. Uyesugi told them this was to cast the demons out," said Detective Swain.

Police say Uyesugi also punched the autistic teen in the face during the ritualistic beating that lasted for eleven hours.

"He knew he didn't have demons in him. So why he was being abused and being told for demons to come out, it was really lost on him."

The boy's mother tried to end the exorcism, but was unsuccessful.

Pastors at Cherry Hill Church wouldn't comment on the alleged exorcism, but they told police while they do teach how to cast out demons, their methods don't include violence.

The church removed Uyesugi from the parsonage after the incident.

He told police he was simply trying to restrain the boy.