Advertisement

Man Arrested in Rape was Church Leader

Man Arrested in Rape was Church Leader
Advertisement
By The Associated Press
Feb. 06, 2016 | WALTON, KY
By The Associated Press Feb. 06, 2016 | 03:20 PM | WALTON, KY
Officials say a church youth leader who was arrested in connection with the rape of a minor girl was also a licensed foster parent.

Media outlets report that 54-year-old Joseph Niemeyer, who was arrested Tuesday, worked with youth at the New Banklick Baptist Church in Walton. He was also a resource for Benchmark Family Services, a foster care service.

Police say Niemeyer faces first-degree sexual abuse, rape and sodomy charges, all against a girl younger than 12.

Benchmark Family Services said in a statement that it had performed all required criminal background checks for the foster home, and that it is fully cooperating with the investigation.

New Banklick Baptist Church pastor Tim Cochran says Niemeyer will not be allowed to continue leading youth services if he's released from jail.

It's unclear if Niemeyer has an attorney.

ADVERTISEMENT
Advertisement

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT

Advertisement
ADVERTISEMENT