A northwest Ohio pastor as well as a school bus driver was arrested on allegations involving sex crimes against minors, prompting his dismissal from a local church and a suspension from his job with a public school district.
According to the Deshler Police Department, Christopher Walter, 52, was charged with grooming and sexual battery. The sexual battery charge alleges the victim was a minor, and that Walter was more than two years older than the alleged victim.
Under Ohio Revised Code Section 2907.03, sexual battery can apply in cases involving adults who hold positions of authority or trust over minors.
Walter was booked into the Corrections Center of Northwest Ohio on June 2, court records show. During an initial court appearance the next day, a judge set bond at $30,000, with 10 percent permitted for release.
Administrators with Patrick Henry Local Schools confirmed Walter was employed by the district as a bus driver. Following his arrest, the district suspended him without pay.
“Patrick Henry Local Schools is aware of the arrest and criminal charges involving an employee of the district,” the district said in a statement. “The employee has been suspended without pay. Because this is a personnel and legal matter, the district will have no further comment.”
Walter also served as lead pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Deshler. Church officials confirmed he was removed from that position following the allegations.
According to local news reporters Bishop Daniel Beaudoin described the accusations as serious and deeply troubling. He said the church acted after hearing of the allegations and emphasized that abuse has no place within the faith community.
“The abuse of anyone, especially minors, has no place in our church,” Beaudoin said via local reports. “We will continue to pray for those harmed, the congregation and all involved as we navigate this troubling situation.” The bishop did not provide additional details about Walter’s termination or any internal actions taken by the church.
Authorities have released few details about the investigation. The Deshler Police Department said it is not providing additional information at this time. “The matter remains under investigation, and no further information is being released currently.”
Court records do not indicate whether Walter had entered a plea at this report. Information regarding legal representation was not immediately available.
School officials did not say how long Walter had worked for the district. Church officials likewise did not provide details about his tenure as lead pastor. No information about the alleged sexual battery victims has been released. Authorities have not indicated whether additional charges could be filed as the investigation continues.
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