Children’s Minister in Madison County Arrested, Charged with Sexual Abuse of a Child

WHNT
December 16, 2016

http://whnt.com/2016/12/16/childrens-minister-in-madison-county-arrested-charged-with-sexual-abuse-of-a-child/

A children's minister from Bethlehem Baptist Church in Hazel Green has been arrested on two charges of sexual abuse of a child under the age of 12. The church has confirmed to WHNT News 19 James "Javie" McNeal was arrested yesterday.

The Madison County Sheriff's Office confirms one victim filed a complaint about an incident that happened at the church where McNeal served as a children's minister for six years.

Lon Ostrzycki, lead pastor of the church, says "McNeal has been terminated and isn't allowed on the property."

James McNeal (Image: Madison County Sheriff's Office)

Church leaders are working with the families involved.

Ostrzycki called the situation a bad mistake and says McNeal will suffer the consequences. He also says the church will continue to preach Jesus and they will pull together as a church family and pray.