A Kentucky Sunday school teacher who claimed to have powers of black magic was found guilty this week of multiple counts of sexual-related offenses.

Rex Allen Murphy, 31, of Eubank, Kentucky, was convicted of first-degree sodomy, first-degree sexual abuse, and use of a minor in a sexual performance Monday in the Pulaski Circuit Court, according to the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office. 

Murphy was arrested and charged in the case in October 2014, after allegations of sexual abuse were made. He was a Sunday school teacher at the Polly Ann Church of God in the Eubank area.

During the trial, testimony was also presented that Murphy claimed to be able to determine people’s “sins” by the mere touch of a hand, and claimed that a 16-year old boy suffered from the “sin” of homosexuality.

Over a period of months, Murphy’s talking and touching became more sexual in nature, as the minor testified, also stating that Murphy claimed to have “black magic” powers and that he was afraid that Murphy would “destroy his mind,” according to the Commonwealth’ Attorney’s office. The victim finally reported this conduct in October 2014.

According to the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office, Murphy’s defense at trial was that the relationship with the minor was consensual.

The Commonwealth argued that Murphy’s behavior was “monstrous,” and that Murphy abused his position of trust.

The jury returned a conviction on Murphy of all charges in under an hour. A 30-year prison sentence was recommended for the Commonwealth. Judge David Tapp remanded Murphy into custody and set final sentencing for May 1, 2015.

Harris writes for the Commonwealth (Ky.) Journal