TONTITOWN (AR)
KHBS/KHOG [Rogers, AR]
April 15, 2025
By Talya Holgate-Allen
The diocese’s letter states that the employee is currently on administrative leave and will not be allowed to return until a decision is made about his employment status.
Arkansas State Police arrested an employee from St. Joseph Catholic Church in Tontitown, according to a letter from the Diocese of Little Rock.
According to the letter signed by Deacon Matthew A. Glover, Paul Scouten has been an office manager at the church since August 2016. The letter states that ASP found child sexual abuse material on Scouten’s work computer.
“We know that you may have your own questions and concerns about whether the allegations against Mr. Scouten might have anything to do with the children and students on your parish’s campus,” Glover wrote. “At this time, there is nothing to indicate any of the children or youth at your parish or any of the students at Ozark Catholic Academy have been involved.”
The diocese’s letter states that Scouten is currently on administrative leave and will not be allowed to return until a decision is made about his employment status.
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office website shows that Paul Scouten was arrested on charges of distribution, possession, or viewing of child pornography.
Anyone who may have information on this case is urged to call ASP and request Special Agent Roy Moomey at 479-783-5195.
If you or someone you know is involved in child sexual abuse, contact the Arkansas Child Abuse Hotline at (800) 482-5964.