“We hold fast to our mission as a church to offer hope, bring healing, and stand firm in our faith, seeking justice while shining a light in the darkness,” the statement added.
Peternel was charged with one count of child exploitation, two counts of possession of CSAM (level 5 felony), and one count of possession of CSAM (level 6 felony). Peternel has pleaded guilty to all charges in exchange for a more favorable sentence.
During his sentencing hearing, Peternel said that he was “deeply sorry.”
“I hate my sin that I’ve committed,” he continued. “I want to apologize to anybody who has fallen victim to my behavior.”
Addressing his parents, Peternel said, “I’m sorry for putting you in this humiliating situation. You’ve been dishonored, your wonderful reputations have been ruined, and your names have been dragged through the mud all because I cared about myself more than you.”
Peternel said that while he has been in custody, he has been participating in daily Bible studies with fellow inmates and has completed a 12-step addiction recovery program.
Peternel was sentenced to six years in prison. However, the final two years of that sentence will be suspended to probation.
As the judge handed down the sentence, he told Peternel that his actions were “egregious” but also said that Peternel’s crimes were “not on the worst end” of the spectrum of cases he had sentenced.
“You alluded to it, but what you do affects what other people do and has them exploit minors. That’s pretty darn serious,” the judge added, “and my sentencing reflects that.”
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In addition to his prison term, Peternel is required to register as a sex offender for the remainder of his life. He will receive credit for the time he has already served during the trial and sentencing process.
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