Michigan youth pastor and Christian rock singer accused of sexually abusing children

AUGUSTA TOWNSHIP, Mich. — A man who worked as a youth pastor at a Michigan church and also performed as a Christian rock singer was arrested after being accused of child sexual abuse.

Zachary Radcliff, 29, who works at Oakwood Church and is the son of senior pastor Frank Radcliff, is charged with criminal sexual misconduct, two counts of aggravated child sexual abuse, two counts of child sexual abuse and five counts of sexual abuse. Counts using computer/internet to commit a crime and using a computer to commit a crime, according to a news release. From Michigan State Police. All the allegations are crimes.

The investigation into Zachary Radcliff began on October 2, when police were told Radcliff had solicited “child sexually abusive material from a minor.” Authorities searched both Radcliff’s office and home and said they identified multiple victims.

Investigators believe the abuse began as early as 2011 and involved children ages 12 to 17, police said. The investigation is ongoing and police are encouraging other potential victims to come forward.

Police said Oakwood Church is cooperating with the investigation. A. statement from the church He said Radcliff was suspended with pay on Oct. 3 and fired on Oct. 12 as more information emerged.

“The information we received was shocking,” the statement said. “We were told that Zachary solicited inappropriate photos and possibly videos from teenagers. We have heard other stories as well.

“This information broke our hearts. The safety and protection of individuals in our church is of the utmost importance to us. We are committed to doing all we can to care for the victims of these crimes.”

The church said it was offering counseling to both children and parents affected by the reported incidents.

“We are heartbroken, just like you,” the statement said. “We have a desire to serve our Lord in this community, with the understanding that the church family should be one of the safest places in which we can be involved. Some of that trust has been broken. “Our commitment is to be completely transparent and do everything we can to assist in this investigation.”

NBC News reports Radcliff appeared as a musician at the 2019 Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC). He was reportedly a strong supporter of former President Donald Trump and made a post. video on YouTube She performs the song “I’ll Stand” in November 2019. Meeting at Freedom University.

Radcliff is scheduled to appear in court next Thursday in Washtenaw County.