Elkins, WV – Authorities in Randolph County confirmed Wednesday that Kevin Curtis Jones, 33, pastor of Summit Church in Elkins, has been arrested and charged with soliciting a minor via computer, a felony offense under West Virginia law. Jones was taken into custody and is being held at Tygart Valley Regional Jail on a $50,000 cash-only bond set by Magistrate Benjamin Shepler.
Investigation Led by County and Task Force Officers
The criminal complaint, filed by Deputy and Task Force Officer D.A. Cale of the Barbour County Sheriff’s Office and the Mountain Region Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, details the events leading to Jones’ arrest. Officer Cale assisted Corporal C. Parks in an ongoing investigation into allegations that Jones contacted a minor through electronic communication.
Parks informed Cale that the alleged victim, now an adult, had attended Summit Church, 245 Martin St, Elkins, WV 26241, where Jones served as pastor. Evidence-gathering efforts included securing a search warrant in Randolph County to seize cell phones, flash drives, computers, and other storage devices.
Pastor’s Electronic Devices Seized from RV at Campground
On Wednesday, Cale located Jones at the Smokey Bottom Camp Ground off Route 33. Inside the RV, investigators seized what the complaint describes as a “large amount” of electronic devices. The alleged victim emerged from the RV to speak with Cale and provided details of their interactions with Jones.
The alleged victim recalled visiting Jones’ home in Randolph County around Christmas 2023 along with other juveniles. Shortly after, Jones allegedly began contacting the victim by phone, discussing being in a “clandestine relationship” once the victim reached adulthood.
Allegations Tied to Abuse of Position
The complaint notes that Jones, as a pastor, held a position of trust over the victim. Cale wrote that the victim affirmed Jones had engaged in solicitation as defined under West Virginia State Code.
“It is evident that Pastor Kevin Jones used a communication device to contact the victim to solicit, entice, seduce or lure them into a clandestine relationship while he remained married and was a person of trust,” the statement in the complaint reads.
Legal Options for Families Impacted by Pastor Sexual Misconduct
When allegations arise involving a pastor accused of abusing a child, many families are left uncertain about what steps to take or where to turn for help. In this discussion, West Virginia lawyer Jesse Forbes, who has extensive experience representing survivors, explains the legal options available to families seeking accountability and protection for their children.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: When allegations like these involve a person in a position of trust, what steps can victims take to protect their rights?
Jesse Forbes, Esq.: Victims have both criminal and civil options. Criminal charges focus on holding the offender accountable under state law, as in this case. Civil claims can be filed against the offender and, in certain circumstances, the church or affiliated organization, if evidence shows they failed to act or provided an environment allowing the misconduct.
Banville: If someone is unsure about coming forward, what should they know?
Forbes: Confidential consultations are available, and statutes of limitations vary. It’s important for survivors to speak with an attorney as soon as they feel ready, so we can examine all available legal avenues, including damages for emotional harm, loss of trust, and other lasting impacts.
Free Legal Support for Families in Need
Families affected by abuse involving a trusted community leader deserve guidance and a voice in seeking accountability. Our compassionate legal team is here to listen, explain your rights, and help you take the next step. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation to discuss your options and begin the path toward justice and healing.
