Investigators say Ellendale pastor sexually abused women in his church

By Andrew Sharp

An Ellendale pastor is accused of sexual abuse of three women, and the state Department of Justice says there may be more victims.

Major Foster, a former bishop at Philadelphia Pentecostal Holiness Church in Ellendale, was indicted in November on three counts of third-degree unlawful sexual contact, the department said in a press release Thursday.

Now, prosecutors say they have reason to believe that there may be more victims.

"We ask that any additional victims or witnesses with information come forward," Attorney General Kathy Jennings said in a statement. "We will be there to support you."

The department said there were reports that Foster tried to use scripture to coerce women in the church into sexual relationships, made inappropriate comments and initiated long hugs during which he made inappropriate sexual contact with the victims. He also faces an offensive touching charge for pushing a victim's husband when confronted, the department said.

Anyone with additional information should contact Detective L. Coleman with Delaware State Police at 302-752-3813.

Foster is a longtime community leader. He helped push for central water and sewer in Ellendale through the Ellendale Community Civic Improvement Association, the News Journal reported in 2018. He also started a food program in the mid-80s, according to the Cape Gazette.