(KY)
WPSD Local 6 [Paducah, KY]
October 9, 2026
By Elizabeth Crider
Jared Denney, a former leader at a McCracken County church, appeared Friday before Judge Jenny Hines in McCracken County District Court for arraignment, at which time a not guilty plea was entered on his behalf.
Denney was arrested as a result of an investigation which began in late August, and alleges that Denney, 37, sent sexually explicit messages to a minor.
Denney is currently charged with grooming, procuring or promoting use of a minor by electronic means and distribution of obscene materials to minors. He is set to appear back in court for a preliminary hearing at 1:30 p.m. on Oct. 15, according to the McCracken County District Court Clerk.
While McCracken County Sheriff’s Office called Denney a former youth pastor/leader with the church in its original news release, Bellview Baptist Church said in a statement that Denney was a Sunday school teacher. It’s unclear if Denney’s position with the church was paid or unpaid.
Individuals charged with crimes are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.