By Erika Hernandez
A pastor and his wife were arrested in South Carolina following a complaint from a foster child who claimed to have been a victim of sexual and physical abuse. Authorities believe there could be more victims.
Authorities arrested Rodney Gibson and Kawiana Young, both 50, following a complaint from a minor who claimed to have been a victim of abuse in their foster home, according to WIS News 10.
According to the Richland County Sheriff’s Office, Gibson faces multiple charges, including first- and second-degree criminal sexual conduct with a minor, as well as other related crimes.
Serious accusations
According to the research, Gibson allegedly sexually abused a victim repeatedly from the time she was 15 years old until she left the foster care system.to.
In addition, another minor told investigators that he was also a victim of sexual abuse by Gibson and physical abuse by Young.
The child was removed from the home and placed in emergency protective custody.
During a hearing on March 20, a judge initially ordered the child returned to the couple’s home.
However, after further interviews and the collection of more evidence, authorities obtained arrest warrants on April 1 and removed the minor from the scene again.
Irregularities in the reception system
Authorities noted that Young was a licensed foster mother between 2021 and 2025 and had six minors in her care.
However, the Department of Social Services said Young did not report that she was married or that Gibson lived in the home, a violation of program requirements.
Both were released on bail on April 2 while the judicial process continues.
Authorities believe there may be more victims and have asked anyone with information to contact authorities.
Gibson is a pastor at a local church, while Young runs a child care center, which has increased concern in the community.
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