Southern Baptist Pastor in Kentucky Arrested on Sodomy and Sexual Abuse Charges

Scott Christian Hughes, 54, pastor of Pleasant View Baptist Church in Waynesburg, Kentucky, was arrested on Thursday night on four charges, including sodomy, sexual abuse, and incest, according to the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office. Hughes faces a maximum possible sentence of 40 years in prison for “deviate sexual intercourse” with a child under 14. The charges stem from allegations that allegedly began in 2018 and another that spanned 2012 to 2013.

Two individuals have come forward with allegations against Hughes. The sheriff’s office urged anyone with information to come forward, noting that investigations involving past conduct can take time. “Every piece of information can be important,” stated Sheriff Jones in a statement. Crimes committed outside of Pulaski County will be referred to the appropriate law-enforcement agency.

Hughes was arrested at his Somerset home on October 1 with a warrant issued by the Pulaski County District Court. Bond was set at $75,000, and he remains in county jail. His arrest was first reported by Kentucky Today, the Kentucky Baptist Convention news outlet. Pleasant View Baptist Church announced that Hughes had been placed on administrative leave, stating he was “relieved of all duties until the investigation is complete.”

The church expressed concern and commitment to handling the situation with care and integrity. It encouraged its congregation to remain prayerful and united in its commitment to Christ. Pleasant View Baptist Church, located in Lincoln County, shut down its Facebook page following the announcement.

Hughes previously led Eubank Baptist Church, another Southern Baptist congregation between Somerset and Waynesburg. The church expressed grief for everyone involved and called for prayers for the families affected and for justice to be done.

This case underscores the importance of accountability and transparency in church leadership, as well as the need for vigilance in protecting vulnerable individuals. As Proverbs 31:8-9 reminds us, we are called to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves and to defend the rights of the oppressed.

Source: Read the original report