Warren, AR – An 86-year-old pastor from Warren, Arkansas has been arrested and charged with distributing, possessing, and viewing sexually explicit conduct involving children. Rocky Goodwin, the lead pastor at Calvary Baptist Church, now faces serious legal consequences for his alleged involvement with child sexual abuse materials.
Investigation and Arrest of Lead Pastor
The Arkansas State Police began investigating Goodwin in April 2023 after receiving multiple cyber tips from the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children. In May 2024, authorities executed a search warrant at Goodwin’s residence, seizing several electronic devices including laptops and hard drives.
During their examination of the seized devices, investigators discovered a compressed zip file labeled “12-year-old girl” that contained sexually graphic content. Further analysis revealed over 70 images of child sexual abuse materials, with 47 classified as Category One and 24 as Category Two.
Church Pastor Charged with Possession of Child Sex Abuse Material
On Monday, the Bradley County prosecuting attorney’s office formally filed charges against Goodwin. Despite the evidence, Goodwin has denied any knowledge of the child sexual abuse material and claims he did not operate the laptop for illegal purposes.
A judge has set Goodwin’s bail at $150,000 and ordered him to surrender his passport. His arraignment is scheduled for September 28, 2024, in Bradley County.
Pastor Still Preaching Despite Arrest for Possessing and Distributing CSAM
Surprisingly, despite the serious nature of the charges, Goodwin has been seen preaching on his church’s livestream after posting part of his bail. This development has raised concerns within the community and among child protection advocates.
As the case unfolds, local authorities continue to investigate the full extent of Goodwin’s alleged activities. The arrest serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against child exploitation and the importance of vigilance in protecting vulnerable individuals.
Clergy Sex Abuse Cases and Victim Rights
To better understand the legal landscape surrounding cases of clergy sexual abuse, we spoke with Joshua Gillespie, an experienced Arkansas attorney specializing in sexual abuse cases.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: What legal rights do victims of clergy sexual abuse have?
Joshua Gillespie, Esq.: Victims can pursue both criminal and civil actions. While the state handles criminal prosecution, victims can file civil lawsuits against the perpetrator and potentially the church or religious organization. These lawsuits can seek compensation for damages, including medical expenses, therapy costs, and pain and suffering.
Banville: How can negligent parties be held accountable in these cases?
Gillespie: Religious organizations can be held liable if they failed to protect their members adequately. This might include instances of inadequate background checks, ignoring previous complaints, or failing to implement proper safeguards. Victims can seek damages from these institutions through civil lawsuits, which can lead to significant financial penalties and mandated policy changes.
Banville: What advice would you give to potential victims sexually abused by a pastor?
Gillespie: I urge any potential victims to come forward and report their experiences to law enforcement. It’s also crucial to seek support from trusted individuals or professional counselors. Consulting with an experienced attorney can help victims understand their rights and navigate the legal process effectively.
Support for Pastor Sex Abuse Victims and Their Families
If you or a loved one has been affected by clergy abuse, it’s important to know that you are not alone. There are legal avenues available to seek justice and support. We encourage victims and their families to reach out for assistance. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your rights and options. Your voice matters, and we are here to help you navigate this difficult journey.
Source:
Mr. Banville is a personal injury attorney who has experience in handling auto accidents, work injuries, medical malpractice, dog bites, slip and falls, and representing survivors and victims of sexual abuse. Mr. Banville is affiliated with law firms in Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, D.C., and Maryland. Abuse Guardian