New Arrest in Pawleys Island Church Case Over Sex Offender Volunteer Allegations

Michael Anthony Fields, the director of operations at Pawleys Island Community Church, was arrested Wednesday by the Georgetown County Sheriff’s Office. Fields was responsible for campus security and student safety at Pawleys Island Christian Academy. His arrest followed ongoing investigations into the church and its affiliated academy, which have centered on allegations that the pastor allowed registered sex offender Warren Perry to volunteer on church grounds and around children.

During a recent hearing before the South Carolina Department of Probation, Pardon and Parole, officials discussed Perry’s parole status. Perry claimed during a June 10 home office visit that he would be setting up for Vacation Bible School but would be gone before children arrived. Earlier, during an office visit 10 days before the initial complaint, Perry denied any contact with minors. These statements contrast with evidence later uncovered by authorities.

On July 17, law enforcement searched Perry’s apartment and seized six devices. Among the items found was a slideshow sent by a church member for a memorial service that included pictures of children in bathing suits, as well as a photo of Perry on the preschool playground. Perry declined an attorney and spoke directly to the court, stating, “There was never any intent in harming anybody, that is not the person that I am. Not excusing it but giving a little bit of an explanation.”

The judge found Perry violated the conditions of his agreement and ordered the case forwarded to General Sessions. This development comes amid multiple lawsuits filed on behalf of families connected to the church. Attorney Randy Hood noted that as more information emerges through discovery and depositions, the situation will become clearer, though he warned it will not be pleasant.

Another negligence lawsuit was filed on Tuesday, marking the first to list the South Carolina Department of Probation, Pardon and Parole as a defendant. The lawsuit alleges the agency failed to properly supervise Perry after his sentencing and failed to enforce conditions meant to keep him away from children. These legal actions highlight the gravity of the situation and the potential for systemic accountability.

The case raises important questions about the responsibilities of religious institutions and oversight agencies in protecting vulnerable individuals. As the investigation continues, the focus remains on ensuring justice, accountability, and the safety of children. The biblical principle in Matthew 25:35 reminds us that caring for the vulnerable is a moral imperative, and this case underscores the need for vigilance and integrity in all forms of community service.

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