Former Youth Minister Indicted on More Sexual Abuse Charges

By Fred Davenport
WVTM
December 19, 2015

http://www.wvtm13.com/news/former-youth-minister-indicted-on-sexual-abuse-charges/37037354

[with video]

A former associate pastor at Munford Baptist Church is being accused of more sex crimes, according to Moody police.

In 2011, a grand jury indicted Brian Pesnell of Moody on rape and sex abuse charges. Now, he’s facing additional charges.

"He was indicted by a grand jury last week for sexual abuse for a child under 12 and enticing a child,” said Lt. Eric Hansen with the Moody Police Department.

"It's very troubling because you want to think that that's the place to go for peace to build your faith and it didn't work that way,” said a church member who did not wish to be identified.

She said Pesnell was an active minister and he helped bring more young people into the church.

"(He) seemed to be dedicated, but you never know,” she said.

Pesnell worked at Munford Baptist Church from 2005 until he was terminated on July 26, 2010, according to the church's pastor, Jeff Weathers.

"His termination was due to an incident that was brought to light and was handled thoroughly and promptly," Weathers said.

Weathers told WVTM 13 the church requires criminal background checks on all staff and volunteers, especially those who work with students and children.

"Providing a safe environment for our members and our community is paramount and therefore we also employ a security team," Weathers said.

Meanwhile, Pesnell posted a $25,000 bond and was released from jail.