UPDATE (June 24, 2026): Pastor Tony Spell Bonds Out After Battery Arrest – “Truth Will Come Out in Court”

(Court Date September 15)

Pastor Tony Spell is embraced by his wife upon bonding out of East Baton Rouge Parish Prison on June 23, 2026

Central, LA — Pastor Mark Anthony “Tony” Spell of Life Tabernacle Church bonded out of East Baton Rouge Parish Prison Tuesday evening after his arrest on a second-degree battery charge.

Speaking briefly to reporters outside the jail, Spell said:

“I have no comment. I’ll be in court. Court date is set for September 15. The truth will come out in court.” 

He then headed back to the church for what he described as a “red-hot sermon.”

The Incident (June 23, 2026)

According to sheriff’s reports and surveillance video:

• The neighbor’s 20-year-old son reportedly yelled profanities.

• Pastor Spell crossed Hooper Road to confront him.

• A physical altercation followed, resulting in the young man being hospitalized with injuries, including a cut requiring stitches.

  
  

Church Members Detail Years of Alleged Harassment

Life Tabernacle Church members say this incident is the latest in a years-long feud with the Sherwin family across the street. They allege repeated harassment aimed at the entire congregation — not just the Spell family.

Life Tabernacle Church members describe ongoing harassment and threats.

Photo provided by church members showing the neighbor holding a gun in his front yard amid the ongoing dispute.

According to church accounts, the alleged harassment has included vulgar insults, obscene gestures, and serious threats — such as rape threats directed at Pastor Spell’s wife and a young Black girl in the congregation. These issues reportedly escalated during the COVID-19 pandemic when the church continued services.

Background on Pastor Tony Spell

Pastor Spell gained national prominence for defending religious freedom during the pandemic lockdowns.

This is a developing story. More details are expected at the September 15 court date.

Video and photo credit: Some of the footage and images in this report were provided by Woody Jenkins of Central City News (centralcitynews.us). Thank you to Woody for documenting this ongoing situation.