A Kentucky pastor is facing felony charges following accusations that he used digital communication to request explicit photos from an 11-year-old member of his congregation.

According to the Christian Post, Clarence Barry Hungerford, a 58-year-old pastor from Mayfield, Kentucky, was arrested after admitting he contacted the minor and destroyed evidence connected to the case.

The Marshall County Sheriff’s Office began investigating on June 23, 2025, after the family of the young girl reported the alleged misconduct. The child had reportedly been approached online by the pastor, who served at Aurora Baptist Church in Marshall County.

Church leader accused of misconduct against minor

Investigators confirmed details of the incident two days later, using digital records to determine that Hungerford had sent messages asking the child to provide inappropriate photographs. The Sheriff’s Office made an official announcement on June 25 using its Facebook page to disclose the findings.

According to their report, Hungerford admitted that he not only contacted the minor but also destroyed his cell phone to remove evidence. This action led to additional criminal charges, including evidence tampering.

Hungerford was charged with two felonies. The first, tampering with physical evidence, is a Class D felony in Kentucky and is punishable by up to five years in prison. The second and more serious charge involves the unlawful use of electronic means to induce a minor, under age 12, to engage in prohibited conduct. That Class B felony carries a sentencing range of 10 to 20 years.

Religious community responds as pastor steps down

Following the arrest, Hungerford was placed on administrative leave from his duties at Aurora Baptist Church. The congregation belongs to the Purchase Area Baptist Association, which confirmed the pastor’s leave and acknowledged the legal investigation surrounding the incident.

The association publicly stated its support for the local church and pledged cooperation with authorities. “The Purchase Area Baptist Association is standing with the church as civil authorities conduct their investigations and as the church grieves over the accusations and allegations and we seek to minister to all involved,” it said.

In addition, the association announced that the church was working with law enforcement and praying for justice and healing. A vacancy has now been posted for the lead pastoral position, reflecting the leadership change during the investigation.

Legal proceedings underway for arrested pastor

Hungerford appeared in a Marshall County courtroom for his arraignment on June 30. During that appearance, he entered a not-guilty plea and requested that a public defender be assigned to represent him. Court documents indicate the next hearing is scheduled for July 9, 2025.

The legal proceedings have drawn attention from the local community, including members of the congregation and child protection advocates. The seriousness of the charges has underscored growing concerns about child safety in faith-based settings.

The Marshall County Sheriff’s Office has not released additional details about the ongoing investigation, though officials stated that the church has remained cooperative throughout the process.

Community grapples with the fallout of allegations

In the wake of the arrest, community members have expressed shock over the allegations involving a trusted religious leader. Aurora Baptist Church has been a place of worship for many families in the area, and Hungerford had served as pastor there before the charges were filed.

As the story continues to develop, faith leaders and mental health professionals in the region have urged compassion and patience for those impacted, especially the affected child and her family.

While the pastor awaits his next court hearing, the church is expected to appoint an interim leader to assist with services and community outreach. The association has offered its support during this transitional period.