The Caddo Herald
December 10, 1920
Methodist Ministry Dismisses Dilbeck
Rev. Dilbeck, who at the recent term of the district court was convicted for assault upon a young lady, was yesterday expelled from the ministry of the M. E. church, South, and also from membership in this church. This was the result of a trial before seven members of the church, summoned by Presiding Elder Blackburn of this district which was held in Durant, Friday, December 3rd. Mr. Dilbeck has a right to appeal from the decision of the committee to the Methodist conference, if he so desires. He was tried under the laws of the church, the presiding elder naming an investigating committee at the time trouble first came up.
This committee filed charges of gross immorality against Dilbeck and the trial on the 3rd instant resulted. He was not present, but had been notified to appear, but refused. Evidence was taken at the trial and it is understood that it was a unanimous verdict. The trial of Dilbeck had caused a great deal of excitement at the time, for the reason that he was a minster of the Gospel and was holding a protracted meeting at the time the assault was said to have been made.
He was found guilty and convicted, being given thirty days in the county jail and to pay a fine of $75. He has appealed from the decision of the district court to the State Supreme Court. He is now at his home in Carter County. It could not be learned whether or not he expects to take his case before the annual conference when it convenes next year.
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