Former Worship Pastor Accused of Sexual Assault Charges
When we start attending a Church for the first time, we try to create safe relationships with those around us. The importance of a sound pastor, friendly congregants, and steady leaders is detrimental to the growth and reputation of a ministry. In Owensboro, Kentucky, however, Pleasant Grove Baptist Church is facing unforeseeable circumstances after their worship pastor was arrested for multiple charges related to sexual assault involving a juvenile.
David A. Rodgers, 40 of Utica, was arrested by Kentucky State Police on the evening of February 16th, 2026, and terminated immediately from Pleasant Grove Baptist Church. Following an ongoing investigation into maintaining sexual relations with a juvenile, Rodgers was charged with third-degree rape, second-degree sodomy, and first-degree sexual abuse. Upon learning of the allegations, the church was saddened and troubled.
“The church takes all allegations of sexual assault extremely seriously, and we ask that you join us in prayerfully awaiting information regarding this ongoing legal matter. Effective immediately, the staff member has been terminated and prohibited from participating in church-sponsored functions.”
According to a citation from The Owensboro Times, Rodgers maintained this relationship with a minor under the age of 12 through a “position of special trust.” As a worship leader, he took advantage of his authority and is now facing the consequences: "Rodgers was taken into custody, was mirandized, and agreed to be interviewed. In the interview, (Rodgers) confessed to the listed offenses.”
Currently, Rodgers is being held on a $75,000 cash bond with an arraignment scheduled for Wednesday, February 18th, 2026. While KSP initially received complaints for this case in January of 2026, the incidents are said to have begun roughly 10-11 years ago, continuing for 4-5 years.
While appalled by the situation, church leaders at Pleasant Grove reassure congregants: “We understand that for sexual assault survivors, this may initiate feelings of pain and past trauma,” the church said in a statement. “Please know we are praying for you and your continued healing. Pleasant Grove has always taken the physical, spiritual, and emotional safety of those on our campus, especially our children, with the utmost concern, and that continues to remain of primary importance.”
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Bethel Church Places Pastor on Administrative Leave Amid Allegations of Clergy Sexual Abuse
Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/SeventyFour
Originally published February 18, 2026.
