MS Youth Pastor Gets 7 Years On Grooming Charges

Mississippi crime blog the Dark Horse Press reports:

A former Rankin County youth pastor pleaded guilty to child exploitation Tuesday morning. Tyler Swaggard, 22, was arrested by Flowood Police Department on two felony counts of child exploitation in December of 2021. Authorities said he solicited explicit photos from youth group members. The arrest came after several complaints from the teens. Swaggard was sentenced to 15 years with seven to serve, officials said.

Jackson’s ABC affiliate reports:

Pinelake Church released this statement following Swaggard’s arrest: “We are aware of the recent arrest and charges involving a former Pinelake staff member. When the allegations were first brought to our attention, we quickly reported it and began working closely with authorities to assess the situation. These charges are very serious and deeply disturbing. It is a heartbreaking betrayal of our standards, especially from someone in a position of trust. Our priority is to shepherd and care for our church family, and we will continue to work diligently to provide care and support to all those affected by this situation.”

Former Flowood Youth Pastor Pleads Guilty To Child Exploitation Charges https://t.co/2dmjrUxdEU pic.twitter.com/iSw3VkpV4p

— Therese Apel (@TRex21) January 17, 2023