COARSEGOLD (CA)
KSEE - NBC 24 [Fresno CA]
October 30, 2025
By John Houghton
A youth pastor from Madera County was arrested at his home in Coarsegold after a months-long investigation into allegations of sexual abuse involving a 15-year-old girl, according to the Madera County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies announced Thursday that they arrested 47-year-old Coarsegold man Joshua David Kemper.
Officials with the sheriff’s office say the investigation started on July 28, after a report was filed by church officials in Coarsegold.
Detectives say they learned that Kemper, who served as a pastor at the church, had been engaging in inappropriate communication and sexual conduct with the juvenile victim.
Deputies say the investigation revealed the victim was in a sexual relationship with Kemper that occurred between March and July 2025. It is alleged that there were multiple incidents at the church, her home, and inside the suspect’s vehicle.
They say digital evidence revealed extensive explicit messaging, photos, and videos exchanged between Kemper and the victim. Officials say Kemper was contacted by investigators and declined to provide a statement, having retained legal counsel.
A search warrant was subsequently sought for his arrest. On Oct. 27, Kemper was arrested at his home in Coarsegold on multiple charges, including sexual abuse.
Investigators say they also identified extensive digital grooming behaviors and confirmed Kemper’s use of a VoIP phone number and social media accounts to conceal communication with the victim.
Based on the current evidence and circumstances of this investigation, deputies say there may be more victims who have not yet come forward.
Anyone with additional information regarding this case or similar prior contact with Joshua David Kemper is encouraged to contact the Madera County Sheriff’s Office Investigations Unit at (559) 675-7770 or Detective Michaela Plummer at (559) 706-1276.