Florida Pastor Charged with Abusing Teen Boy and Allegedly Exposing Him to HIV

In a recent development, a Florida pastor has been charged with serious allegations of grooming and sexually abusing a 14-year-old boy. The Polk County Sheriff’s Office has accused Timothy Chaneyfield, 43, pastor of St. James United American Free Will Baptist Church, of arranging multiple meetings with the teenager through a dating app. The investigation, which began after a tip via social media, led to his arrest on July 29.

Sheriff Grady Judd, during a news conference, alleged that Chaneyfield picked up the boy on at least three occasions and sexually abused him at his residence. Authorities further claim that Chaneyfield, who is HIV-positive, did not disclose his medical status before engaging in unprotected sexual activities with the minor. The teenager has since received preventive medical treatment after learning of the potential exposure.

The case has drawn additional attention as investigators explore allegations involving another individual, a 26-year-old man who reportedly tested positive for HIV following a sexual encounter with Chaneyfield. While authorities have not confirmed a direct medical link, they are urging anyone with information to come forward.

Sheriff Judd has expressed concern over the possibility of more victims, referring to Chaneyfield as a “super spreader.” The investigation has revealed that Chaneyfield also served as a chaplain for Compassionate Care Hospice and previously worked for Polk County Public Schools.

Court records indicate that Chaneyfield faces multiple felony charges, including lewd battery involving a child, traveling to meet a minor, computer-related offenses, and failing to disclose his HIV status before sexual activity. As this case unfolds, it serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of accountability and justice, echoing the biblical call to “act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God” (Micah 6:8).

Source: Read the original report