Introduction to the Case
This article is part of “Pastors and Prey,” an NBC News series investigating sex abuse allegations in the Assemblies of God.
Thomas Pinkerton Jr. used to tell children in his youth group in Maryland that it was normal for a pastor to kiss boys on the lips, because that’s how Jesus greeted his disciples, according to an arrest warrant made public last week.
Kissing was just the beginning, several men from Pinkerton’s former youth group told police.
The Allegations Against Pinkerton
Pinkerton, 52, a youth minister known as Pastor Tommy, is being held without bond following accusations that he sexually abused six teens from 2006 to 2010 while working at Central Christian Church, an Assemblies of God church in Baltimore County. He was extradited from his home state of Georgia to Maryland last Wednesday to face 24 felony and misdemeanor counts in Baltimore County. His attorney, Justin Hollimon, said he pleaded not guilty.
An arrest warrant said the alleged abuse included inappropriate touching and kissing of six teenagers in Maryland, who ranged in age from 13 to 19. The warrant said the alleged abuse happened at the church and at Pinkerton’s former home in Maryland. A seventh man reported abuse by Pinkerton in Georgia, according to the warrant, and that report was referred to authorities there, officials in Baltimore County said.
Detectives believe there may be more victims and have asked anyone with information to come forward.
Response from Pinkerton and the Church
Pinkerton, who has worked as a traveling evangelist in recent years, was “completely shocked” by the charges, his attorney said Monday.
“He is a pastor. He gave his life to the community, worked for the community,” Hollimon said, adding that he filed a motion Monday morning seeking another bond hearing for Pinkerton after a judge denied his release last week. “He’s anxiously waiting his day in court.”
Assemblies of God officials distanced themselves from Pinkerton on Monday, telling NBC News that, although Pinkerton worked at an Assemblies of God church, he was never formally credentialed as a minister with the denomination.
Investigation and Aftermath
According to Pinkerton’s arrest warrant, detectives started investigating him after the seven men came forward last fall. The men alleged that when they were in their teens, Pinkerton would give them massages and rub their penises; several said Pinkerton would greet them with what he referred to as a “heavenly kiss” or “brotherly kiss” on the lips, likening this to Jesus. The men said Pinkerton called them his “favorites” and referred to himself as a “spiritual father” to them.
Pinkerton’s former church in Maryland did not return a phone call Monday. In a statement posted last week on its website, Central Christian said Pinkerton served on its staff more than 15 years ago and hasn’t been affiliated with the church since he left to start his own ministry. It also said that since the alleged abuse was reported to law enforcement, additional individuals “have come forward with similar accounts,” including some in other states.
Conclusion
The case against Thomas Pinkerton Jr. highlights the ongoing issue of sex abuse allegations within the Assemblies of God denomination. As the investigation continues, it is essential for victims to come forward and for the church to take responsibility for ensuring the safety and well-being of its members. If you or someone you know is a victim of sexual assault, free, confidential help is available through the National Sexual Violence Resources Center and the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-4673.
FAQs
Do you have a story to share about the Assemblies of God’s handling of sex abuse allegations? Email reporter Mike Hixenbaugh.
What is the current status of Thomas Pinkerton Jr.? He is being held without bond and has pleaded not guilty to the charges.
How can victims of sexual assault get help? Free, confidential help is available through the National Sexual Violence Resources Center and the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-4673.
What is the Assemblies of God denomination doing to address sex abuse allegations? The denomination has pledged to make changes to prevent similar abuses in the future and is cooperating with law enforcement investigations.
