Former youth pastor accused of sexually abusing at least 6 teens

Allegations and Charges - Thomas Pinkerton, a 52-year-old former youth pastor, is facing 24 counts related to child sexual abuse offenses [1][2] - Seven men have come forward, with six alleging abuse occurred in Baltimore County from 2006 to 2010 when Pinkerton was a youth pastor at Central Christian Church [2] - Survivors reported the abuse began when they were between 12 and 17 years old [2] Legal Proceedings and Decisions - Pinkerton was extradited from Georgia to Maryland for a bail review hearing [3] - The judge determined Pinkerton will be held without bond, considering him a flight risk and a danger to public safety [3] - A preliminary hearing is set for September in Baltimore County [6] Details of Alleged Abuse - Survivors detailed a pattern of behavior including massages, handholding, hugging, wrestling, and kissing, which allegedly escalated into sexual molestation [3] - Pinkerton allegedly groomed young men by fostering a spiritual father-son relationship, instructing them to keep the relationship secret [4] - Victims reported instances of being made to sleep with Pinkerton on mission trips and being stripped down as a gesture of "serving" [4] Aftermath and Investigations - The alleged abuse continued until Pinkerton left to begin his own ministry [5] - Another investigation is underway in Georgia for similar accusations [5] - Central Christian Church called the news "Deeply heartbreaking" and stated it is fully cooperating with the investigation [6]