Churches should be safe places for spiritual growth, especially for the youngest and most vulnerable in the body of Christ. However, a growing number of headlines have exposed tragic failures in leadership and accountability within youth ministry. Below are 13 sobering cases where youth pastors across the country have been arrested or charged with serious crimes. These incidents are not just headlines—they are painful reminders of why integrity, vetting, and oversight are essential in ministry. As we reflect on these stories, may we pray for the victims, pursue justice, and renew our commitment to building churches where holiness is more than just a message—it’s a standard.
13 Headlines That Reveal the Depth of the Crisis in Youth Pastor Arrests
1. Alabama Volunteer Youth Pastor Stephen Johnson Charged With Living Off Earnings of Teen Prostitute
Stephen Johnson, a volunteer youth pastor and counselor for 12 years in Alabama, has been charged with profiting from the earnings of a teenage prostitute. The arrest shocked local faith communities and ignited conversations about how exploitation can hide behind trusted titles.
2. South Carolina Youth Pastor Daniel Kellan Mayfield Fired After Arrest for Alleged Voyeurism
Daniel Kellan Mayfield, a youth pastor at First Baptist Church Gowensville in South Carolina, was terminated after his arrest for voyeurism. Mayfield had served the congregation for seven years before being dismissed on May 27. The church confirmed it acted immediately after learning of the charges.
3. Texas Youth Pastor Conner Jesse Penny Held on $2.5 Million Bond in Sexual Abuse Case
Conner Jesse Penny, 32, was arrested on April 5 and faces three disturbing charges: Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child, Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child, and Indecency with a Child. The serious nature of the charges has prompted deep concern among churchgoers and parents alike.
4. Tennessee Youth Pastor Matthew Brewer Arrested in Human Trafficking Sting
Matthew Brewer, a Tennessee resident and National Guard chaplain, was arrested and charged with solicitation of a minor as part of a human trafficking investigation involving 18 men. Brewer’s church has since released a statement acknowledging his arrest.
5. Tim Somers, Youth Pastor for Elevation Church, Fired Amid Sexual Misconduct Allegations
Tim Somers, who previously served as a youth pastor at Elevation Church in North Carolina, has been terminated after accusations of sexual misconduct surfaced. The allegations trace back to his time serving at Oaks Church in Red Oaks, Texas.
6. Mississippi Youth Pastor Alexander Blackwelder Sentenced for Sexual Relationship With 16-Year-Old
Alexander Blackwelder, formerly of East Main Church of Christ in Tupelo, Mississippi, pleaded guilty to having sex with a 16-year-old church member. He will spend nearly a decade in prison. The case has sparked ongoing discussions about pastoral power dynamics and abuse.
7. California Youth Pastor Adrian Daugherty Arrested on Suspicion of Child Sex Abuse
Adrian Daugherty of Tehachapi Church of the Nazarene in California has been arrested on suspicion of sexually assaulting a young teenager. His arrest adds to a growing list of youth leaders accused of abusing their roles.
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8. Texas Youth Pastor Jerry Nickerson Dismissed From Hope Fellowship Church After Allegations
Jerry Nickerson, who served as youth pastor at the Frisco West campus of Hope Fellowship Church in North Texas, was dismissed following allegations of “inappropriate contact with a minor” from roughly a decade ago. The church issued a public statement and confirmed the action taken.
