An Arizona pastor is facing multiple felony charges after investigators say he sent sexually graphic photos and messages of himself to a minor using Snapchat.
The case has drawn attention because of the suspect’s role as a church leader and the use of a popular social media platform to allegedly communicate with a child. Prosecutors say the investigation began after the messages were reported to authorities, leading to the pastor’s arrest and the filing of charges that could carry significant prison time if he is convicted.
According to court documents, the pastor is accused of sending explicit photographs of himself to a minor over Snapchat on multiple occasions. Investigators say the communications were sexual in nature and were knowingly directed to someone under the age of 18. Police reports indicate detectives obtained evidence from digital records and interviews that they believe support the allegations. Authorities did not release the age of the minor, citing privacy concerns, and have not said how long the alleged communication lasted before it was reported.
Prosecutors charged the pastor with several felony counts, including sexual exploitation of a minor and furnishing obscene material to a minor. The exact number of charges was not immediately clear, but court filings described repeated conduct rather than a single message. Investigators said the alleged actions violated state laws meant to protect children from online sexual exploitation. Officials also said the suspect was taken into custody without incident.
The church where the pastor worked released a brief statement after the charges were announced, saying he had been removed from all duties while the case is pending. Church leaders said they were cooperating with law enforcement and expressed concern for the alleged victim. They did not comment on the specific allegations or on how long the pastor had been serving in his role. Congregants told local media they were shocked by the arrest and struggling to reconcile the charges with the person they knew.
Investigators emphasized that the case underscores how social media platforms can be used to target minors and that digital evidence often plays a central role in these investigations. Police said they worked with prosecutors to secure search warrants and review electronic devices as part of the inquiry. Authorities did not say whether additional victims were being sought or whether the investigation could lead to more charges.
The pastor made an initial court appearance this week, where a judge set conditions of release and scheduled future hearings. Prosecutors said they expect to continue reviewing evidence and preparing the case for possible trial or plea negotiations. Defense attorneys have not publicly commented on the charges.
As of Thursday, the case remained active in Maricopa County Superior Court. The next major step is a preliminary hearing, where prosecutors will outline evidence and a judge will decide whether the case should move forward.
Author note: Last updated Dec. 26, 2025.