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Juanita Bynum Files For Divorce From Preacher Husband Who Beat Her

Section: Religion

The Associated Press

ATLANTA - Televangelist Juanita Bynum has filed for divorce from her husband, who is accused of beating her, her lawyer said.

The divorce filing cites cruel treatment, Bynum's attorney, Karla Walker, told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

The divorce filing also says the marriage between Bynum, 48, and Thomas W. Weeks III, 40, has been "irretrievably broken," Walker said. It was officially filed Monday in Ware County, where Bynum has a home.

Weeks, known to his followers as Bishop Weeks, is accused of beating, stomping, choking and threatening to kill Bynum during an Aug. 21 argument outside an Atlanta hotel. He has been indicted on felony and misdemeanor charges that could send him to prison for up to 27 years.

"She loved her husband," Walker said. "But she does feel it is necessary to stop the domestic violence and go on with the divorce."

A statement issued Friday by Weeks' lawyers said he still holds out hope that he and Bynum can reconcile. Weeks also said last week he would provide his account of what happened at the appropriate time.

Bynum is a former hairdresser and flight attendant who became a Pentecostal evangelist, author and gospel singer. Her ministry blossomed after she preached at a singles event about breaking free of sexual promiscuity. Among her books are "No More Sheets: The Truth About Sex" and "Matters of the Heart."

Her album "A Piece of My Passion" had been listed in the top 10 gospel albums by Billboard magazine for several months. She also preaches through televised sermons.

The couple married in 2002. Together, they wrote "Teach Me How to Love You: The Beginnings."

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