BLACKWELL, OK (LOOTPRESS) – Keith Lynn Holt, 58, a pastor from Blackwell’s House of Prayer, appeared visibly frustrated during a police interrogation earlier this year over allegations of abusing eight children in his home. Holt, who now faces trial on February 25, 2025, in Kay County, Oklahoma, is charged with three counts of child abuse and one count of child neglect.
Interrogation Details
In a recorded session from January 17, 2024, Holt muttered to himself, sighed heavily, and leaned back in his chair while awaiting further questioning. At one point, he whispered, “Wife turned against me. You’re the one who caused it,” apparently addressing the investigators.
Authorities claim the children under Holt’s care suffered significant abuse. Reports detail bruises on one girl’s arms, legs, and a black eye, while a boy alleged that Holt punched him and threw him downstairs.
Holt denies the allegations, expressing disbelief when confronted by police. “Why would someone say that?” he asked, referring to accusations of using a wooden board to discipline children.
Charges and Conviction of Wife
Holt’s wife, Candy Denise Holt, 53, has already pleaded no contest to three counts of enabling child abuse and one count of child neglect. On December 13, she was sentenced to 10 years in prison, with nine years suspended, leaving her to serve just one year in the Kay County Jail.
As part of her plea agreement, Candy Holt is required to testify truthfully in her husband’s trial. During her interrogation, she admitted to striking one of the children when he was four years old and confirmed that her husband spanked their biological children but denied that he ever caused physical harm.
When confronted about the children’s injuries, including bruises and a black eye, Candy Holt expressed disbelief. “A black eye?” she asked, denying her husband’s involvement. She also dismissed claims that one of the children had been locked in a bathroom for three days, laughing at the suggestion.
Police Investigation
Officers revealed that five of the older children, who were under the Holts’ legal guardianship, provided a wooden board allegedly used for discipline. The board was found hidden behind a TV in the home.
Keith Holt has maintained his innocence, denying that he inflicted corporal punishment on certain children at their biological mother’s request.
Upcoming Trial
The trial is set to shed light on the disturbing allegations against Keith Holt, who is accused of abusing children entrusted to his care. The community of Blackwell awaits justice as the legal process unfolds.
Legal and Community Impact
The case has drawn attention to the responsibilities of legal guardians and the consequences of failing to protect vulnerable children. Authorities continue to emphasize the importance of reporting suspected abuse to ensure the safety of all children.
Keith Holt remains in custody as he prepares to face the charges in February.
