Kentucky Baptist Pastor Arrested on Child Abuse and Trafficking Charges

Scott Christian Hughes, a 54-year-old pastor at Pleasant View Baptist Church in Waynesburg, Kentucky, was arrested on October 1 following multiple allegations of child sexual abuse, incest, and human trafficking. Authorities in Pulaski County initially charged Hughes with sodomy and sexual abuse, later adding charges of human trafficking involving a minor. The allegations involve multiple individuals and span over a decade, with reports of abuse dating back to 2012.

Following the arrest, Pleasant View Baptist Church placed Hughes on administrative leave and relieved him of all pastoral duties. Hughes previously served at Eubank Baptist Church and First Baptist Church of Bronston. Additionally, records indicate he was employed by Sunrise Children’s Services, a Baptist organization focused on vulnerable youth, between 2022 and 2024. Law enforcement officials have encouraged anyone with further information regarding the case to come forward as the investigation continues.