American Scandal
Jim and Tammy Faye Bakker | Bringing Down the Bakkers | 4
Jul 2, 2024
Investigative reporter Charles E. Shepard discusses his coverage of televangelist Jim Bakker's financial crimes and sexual assault. Topics include Bakker's lavish spending, scandal involving Jessica Hahn, and his eventual downfall and imprisonment.
40:38
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Quick takeaways
- Investigative journalism exposed financial crimes and sexual assault within Jim Bakker's ministry.
- Shepard's persistence in uncovering truth despite threats led to Pulitzer Prize recognition for public service.
Deep dives
Investigative Reporter Uncovers Misconduct at PTL
In December 1984, investigative reporter Charles E. Shepard receives a call from Jessica Hahn, who details being coerced into a sexual encounter with Jim Baker of PTL. This revelation leads to Shepard's in-depth investigation, revealing the misuse of funds, a $265,000 hush money payment to Hahn, and Baker's resignation and subsequent prosecution.
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