Powell County Pastor Charged with Sexual Abuse Pleads Not Guilty

WKYT
December 22, 2015

http://www.wkyt.com/content/news/Pastor-charged-with-sexual-abuse-to-be-arraigned-Tuesday-363225101.html

Steve Williams

A Powell County pastor and school bus driver who was in a position of authority and trust is accused of using his power to abuse two girls who went to his church.

Steve William’s attorney and longtime friend says the allegations don't line up with the 52 year old's character.

Williams didn't say much during his video arraignment Tuesday morning. His attorney spoke for him, entering a not guilty plea for his charges of first-degree sexual abuse.

Deputies say Williams touched a girl inappropriately during a church field trip and he also is accused of abusing another girl inside Bowen First Church of God, the church where he was pastor. He resigned from Bowen First Church of God on Friday.

The pastor was viewed as a public servant and community helper because he worked as a Middlefork volunteer firefighter and he was a school bus driver.

Williams was being held at the Clark County Detention Center. Deputies think Williams is being held there because he had a jail ministry at the Powell County jail.

His attorney, Jerry Patton, says he’s known Williams about 25 years, and from what he’s seen, the minister is someone who always tried to help others, not hurt them.

“The charges do not fit this man's character, I'll just tell you that upfront. He has an excellent reputation in the community. He has been a pastor for a number of years and involved in civic events. He's been kind to everyone I know of. I've never heard anyone say a bad word about this fellow," said Patton.

Williams will be back in court on Dec. 29 for a preliminary hearing and a bond hearing.

Deputies say if any other victims come forward more charges could be filed against Williams.

The minister declined WKYT’s request for an interview.