$50,000 Bond Set for Bakker, Three Former Ministry Aides

A federal magistrate Thursday set a $50,000 bond for PTL founder Jim Bakker and three former aides, who are accused of supporting lavish life styles by bilking $4 million from his TV ministry’s flock.

Bakker, 48, arrived at the federal courthouse in a white Cadillac, smiling and waving to reporters, and said after the 30-minute hearing that he was innocent. His wife, Tammy, did not accompany him.

“I am not guilty of these charges and I’m looking forward to due process taking place. If I get a fair trial, we can win this case,” he said.

Jan. 17 Arraignment

U.S. Magistrate Paul Taylor continued an arraignment for Bakker and co-defendant Richard Dortch until Jan. 17, when they will enter pleas and a trial date will be set. An unsecured bond of $50,000 was set for Bakker, Dortch and two former PTL employees under indictment.

Bakker, Dortch and brothers David and James Taggart were indicted Dec. 5 after a 16-month federal grand jury investigation into PTL’s operations under Bakker’s leadership.

Dortch is Bakker’s former top deputy. David Taggart is Bakker’s former personal aide, and James Taggart is PTL’s former interior decorator.

Bakker and Dortch are charged with mail fraud and wire fraud. They also are accused of conspiring to defraud contributors to support extravagant life styles and of diverting more than $4 million in PTL money for personal benefit.

Bakker’s only comments in court were to respond “yes, sir” when Taylor asked if he understood the charges.

George T. Davis, Bakker’s chief counsel, said the case had broad implications.

“Bakker is not the only one on trial,” Davis said after the hearing. “His wife is on trial and the whole ministry--the electronic ministry--is on trial. “

Bakker resigned as PTL president in March, 1987, in a sex-and-hush money scandal involving former church secretary Jessica Hahn. Three months later, PTL filed for bankruptcy protection.