Former youth pastor arrested for abuse

A former Maryland youth minister known as Pastor Tommy faces 24 charges after alleged sexual abuse of six teens between 2006 and 2010.

Former youth pastor arrested after allegedly sexually abusing at least 6 teens

Thomas Pinkerton Jr., 52, a former youth minister identified as Pastor Tommy, is in custody in Maryland on 24 counts tied to alleged abuse of six teenage boys from 2006 to 2010 at Central Christian Church in Baltimore County. He was extradited from Georgia after a traffic stop and will stand trial in Maryland, his attorney says he has pleaded not guilty. The arrest warrant describes kissing and touching across church and home settings, with victims aged 13 to 19. A seventh alleged victim reported abuse in Georgia, and investigators say more victims may exist.

The case comes amid broader scrutiny of the Assemblies of God, the denomination behind Central Christian. Officials note Pinkerton was never credentialed as a minister with the AG. Church leaders say they are cooperating with authorities and have seen more people come forward after the original report. Pinkerton has traveled as an evangelist in several states and internationally, raising questions about safeguarding across networks that cross state lines.

This arrest underscores persistent gaps in safeguarding within faith networks. When pastors move between churches or operate as traveling evangelists, oversight can become fragmented. The denomination’s public responses stress credentialing status and institutional distance, even as victims urge stronger protections. The case may push congregations and watchdogs to demand clearer reporting channels, mandatory background checks, and independent investigations when abuse is alleged. It also highlights how media scrutiny and survivor voices shape public trust in faith communities and their handling of abuse claims.

As authorities continue to investigate, the broader question is whether church networks implement consistent safeguards across states and how quickly they respond to allegations. The attention on the Assemblies of God signals potential momentum for reforms, but action must translate into tangible protections for children and transparency for communities.

Highlights

Accountability in this case will hinge on cooperation from churches and the speed of reform across faith networks.