Rossville, MD – Baltimore County police say a former youth pastor at Central Christian Church in Rossville has been charged with sexually abusing teenage boys between 2006 and 2010, and a judge has ordered him held without bail citing public safety concerns. Thomas Pinkerton, 52, was arrested at his Georgia home and extradited to Maryland on Wednesday; he is being held at the Baltimore County Detention Center without bond, according to authorities and court proceedings Thursday.
Sex Charges and Court Ruling
Prosecutors have filed 24 counts against Pinkerton, including multiple charges of child abuse, assault, sex offense, and sexual abuse of a minor, with a judge denying release during a bail review and ordering he remain detained pending further proceedings. Police said the charges stem from alleged abuse that occurred while Pinkerton worked at Central Christian Church and at his home in Baltimore County, with investigators urging additional potential victims to contact the Crimes Against Children Unit as the case continues.
Sexual Abuse Allegations From Multiple Victims
Charging documents describe accounts from at least six men who allege they were abused as teens by Pinkerton, with incidents reported both at the church and at Pinkerton’s Baltimore County residence between 2006 and 2010. One accuser said he met Pinkerton at the church and was part of a group of boys who were treated as “favorites,” alleging inappropriate touching at Pinkerton’s home between July 2007 and July 2009 and describing public favoritism that fostered jealousy among peers. Another said he viewed Pinkerton as a “spiritual father,” spending time together multiple times a week, and later grew suspicious when Pinkerton allegedly shared beds with boys during out-of-state mission trips, while his wife stayed separately with girls, and disappeared with certain boys during those trips. Additional accounts describe a pattern of attention toward “athletic, good-looking, popular males,” with several alleging escalation from massages, hugging, and hand-holding to sexual acts during trips and at Pinkerton’s home, and warnings not to disclose the conduct because it would “ruin everything,” according to charging documents and local reporting.
Church Statement and Support
Central Christian Church said Pinkerton is no longer affiliated with the congregation, stating that he served on staff more than 15 years ago before leaving to start his own ministry, and calling the developments “deeply heartbreaking”. Lead Pastor Larry Kirk said the church is committed to walking alongside those who came forward, offering counseling and spiritual support to those affected, and fully cooperating with law enforcement as the investigation proceeds. The Baltimore County Police Department reiterated that detectives believe there may be additional victims and asked anyone with information to contact the unit handling the case.
What Happens Next
Court records indicate Pinkerton was extradited to Maryland this week, with an initial bail review concluding in continued detention and additional hearings scheduled as the investigation and legal process move forward, including a preliminary hearing in early September referenced in local coverage. Authorities and local outlets have highlighted that one report involves conduct alleged in Georgia, while the remaining reported incidents occurred in Baltimore County, reflecting a multi-jurisdictional investigative posture as the case develops. Police and media partners are urging individuals with relevant information to reach out to investigators as the case remains active and ongoing.
Navigating Rights and Options for Victims of Youth Pastor Sexual Abuse in Maryland
Survivors of sexual abuse by a youth pastor often face challenges in understanding what legal steps they can take. Attorney Laurence Banville spoke with Maryland sexual abuse lawyer Aaron Blank to explain the civil and criminal options available, the potential for holding churches accountable, important considerations about timing and evidence, and how survivors can approach the legal process with support and confidence. This discussion offers essential guidance for those impacted by abuse in religious settings.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: Aaron, what legal options are available for victims who were sexually assaulted by a youth pastor?
Aaron Blank, Esq.: Survivors generally have both criminal and civil paths. The criminal justice system focuses on holding the abuser accountable through prosecution, but parallel to that, victims can file civil lawsuits seeking compensation for the harm they suffered—like medical expenses, therapy, lost income, and emotional damages.
Banville: Can claims involve parties beyond the pastor himself?
Blank: Absolutely. Often, the organization or church that employed the pastor may also be held responsible if they were negligent—such as failing to investigate complaints, inadequately supervising the youth, or ignoring warning signs. These institutions have a duty to protect children in their care.
Banville: What should victims know about timing and evidence?
Blank: Acting promptly is important because of statutes of limitations, though Maryland has recently extended some timelines for child abuse cases. Gathering documentation, records, and any proof of the abuse helps build a stronger case. Consulting an attorney early can guide the survivor through these complexities without additional stress.
Banville: How do survivors cope with the trauma involved in legal proceedings?
Blank: A trauma-informed approach is essential. Experienced attorneys work to minimize retraumatization—offering sensitive communication, protective court measures, and referrals to counseling resources. Support throughout the process is key to empowering survivors to regain control and seek justice with dignity.
Your Path to Healing Starts Here: Reach Out for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has experienced sexual abuse by a youth pastor or other trusted authority, taking the first step toward justice can feel overwhelming. Compassionate, confidential support is available to guide survivors and their families through every stage of the legal process. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your rights, explore your options, and begin the journey toward healing and accountability. No one should face this alone.
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
