Randolph County releases indictments, including pastor charged with soliciting minor and attempted murder

Kevin Jones, 34, a former pastor at Summit Church in Elkins, was indicted on four counts, including soliciting a minor via computer, distribution of material depicting minors in sexually explicit conduct, delivery of a controlled substance, and distribution of a hemp-derived product to a person under 21. Jones was arrested in October 2025 and is currently under investigation by the Mountain Region Drug and Violent Crime Task Force. Due to legal restrictions, media access to detailed information about sex-related crimes is limited.

Two men from Montrose were indicted on charges of attempted first-degree murder, malicious assault, and conspiracy. Derek Arbogast, 36, and Larry Talkington, 62, were arrested in February 2026 following an incident in which a man was shot five times in Randolph County. According to the victim, Arbogast entered the residence and shot him point blank in the head, leading to a physical altercation. Talkington allegedly prevented the victim from escaping and dragged him back into the residence.

A Missouri man, John Foster II, 51, was indicted on two counts of sexual abuse, including first-degree sexual abuse of a minor and sexual abuse by a guardian. The alleged incident occurred in July 2010 at a residence in Montrose. Foster was arrested in April 2026 after a warrant was obtained in 2010, but legal limitations delayed his arrest until March 2026, when the U.S. Marshals Mountain State Fugitive Task Force coordinated with West Virginia State Police to reopen the investigation.

The indictments reflect a range of criminal charges, including serious offenses against individuals and communities. These cases underscore the need for accountability and justice, as well as the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals from harm.

The legal system continues to address these matters through formal charges and investigations. The outcomes of these cases will be determined through due process, ensuring that all parties receive fair treatment under the law.

The cases highlight the complexities of criminal justice, particularly in cases involving church leaders and ministry personnel. These situations require careful attention to the rights of all individuals involved, as well as the pursuit of truth and fairness.

The pursuit of justice and the protection of the vulnerable are central to the Christian call to love and serve others. As the Bible reminds us, justice, mercy, and humble service are essential to living out the faith.

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