Moundville, Alabama, church pastor, day care director and employee face charges connected to alleged child abuse

Moundville police have charged a day care employee with child abuse after an investigation into alleged misconduct at Moundville Methodist Church. The case involves multiple individuals, including the church pastor, day care director, and an employee, who are accused of failing to report the abuse. According to police records, the investigation began in early April following a report of child abuse at the church’s day care facility.

Police Chief Toby Banks stated that the abuse allegedly involved the use of wooden spoons and biting. The investigation has expanded beyond a single child, with multiple parent calls prompting further inquiry. Banks expressed disappointment that the church was not fully transparent during the investigation, noting that the pastor and day care director did not provide timely information.

Pastor Michael Cobb and day care director Hope Lee are charged with obstruction of governmental operations and failure to report abuse. Banks indicated that their lack of cooperation hindered the investigation. The charges against Cobb and Lee are classified as misdemeanors, while the daycare employee, Ada Jimerson, faces a more severe charge of child abuse, a class C felony.

Jimerson was arrested on Tuesday and taken into custody. She has requested an attorney but provided little information during her arrest. The church pastor, Cobb, declined to comment on the matter. It remains unclear whether Jimerson is still employed with the church or if the day care facility is still operational.

The investigation includes records from the day care and multiple parent reports. Banks emphasized the ongoing nature of the inquiry, noting that he spent much of the previous night speaking with concerned parents. The case highlights the importance of accountability and transparency in institutions that serve minors, particularly those within religious communities.

Source: Read the original report