News Summary
A troubling surge in sexual crimes against minors has been reported across the United States, sparking widespread concern. Recent cases in Pee Dee, Utah, New Jersey, Kentucky, and Colorado highlight alarming allegations and legal actions against several individuals. Communities are urged to take these accusations seriously and ensure the safety of young individuals. The incidents emphasize the necessity of swift responses to abuse allegations and the importance of supporting victims to create safer environments.
Recent Wave of Sex Crimes Involving Minors Sends Shockwaves Across the Country
In various corners of the United States, disturbing incidents involving minors and sexual crimes have surfaced, drawing significant concern and prompting legal actions. These cases highlight the importance of taking such allegations seriously and ensuring the safety of young individuals.
Pee Dee Community Reeling After Local Teen’s Guilty Plea
In Pee Dee, a 19-year-old named Jackson Stafford has pleaded guilty to third-degree criminal sexual conduct. This plea comes after shocking revelations from a November 2023 incident at West Florence High School, where Stafford reportedly assaulted a 16-year-old victim. The victim described a harrowing experience where she was pulled into a bathroom and assaulted against her will. Stafford admitted to pushing her and removing her clothes, leaving the community and the victim’s family devastated.
Stafford was sentenced to 18 months in prison, but this term was reduced due to credit for time already served. The situation has escalated to a federal lawsuit against the Florence School District 1 and its superintendent, accusing them of ignoring the victim’s claims. The case is currently pending in court.
Serious Charges Against Fast-Food Manager in Utah
Over in Salt Lake City, Utah, a 38-year-old fast-food manager named Garrett Wilkins has been arrested under troubling circumstances. He faces 17 felony charges, including six counts related to child pornography and several counts of transmitting obscene material to a minor. The investigation into Wilkins began following a tip-off from the Lauderdale County Department of Human Resources, highlighting the community’s attention to safeguarding children.
Initial interviews with the teenage victim revealed she was hesitant to disclose the nature of the communications. However, investigators sensed that her body language suggested something was amiss. The investigation took a serious turn when Wilkins’ wife confirmed the inappropriate communications and admitted to being aware of sexual relations happening at Wilkins’ workplace. Explicit images and videos were discovered, leading to his current detention with a hefty bond set at $606,000.
Pastor Arrested for Alleged Drugging and Molestation
Meanwhile, in Trenton, New Jersey, a 64-year-old pastor named Charles B. Brinson has found himself in hot water. He is accused of molesting a 16-year-old victim by administering a drug that caused her to lose consciousness. The alleged incidents took place at Brinson’s home in early 2025. This isn’t his first run-in with the law; he faced similar charges in 2008, though those were dropped. Authorities are continuing their investigation as they seek to keep Brinson in custody pending trial.
Worship Leader Arrested for Years of Abuse
In Kentucky, a well-known worship leader affiliated with Ken Ham’s Creation Museum has been arrested after admitting to years of sexual abuse against a teenager. Michael Howard, 36, is facing an astonishing 80 counts across two categories of sexual offenses. The accusations date back to when the victim was just 15, and began with inappropriate messaging in 2019. Howard has been released on a $250,000 bail, and the church community is reeling from the news that he is no longer employed there.
Community in Shock as Former Youth Pastor Faces Charges
In Colorado, a former youth pastor has been charged with multiple felony counts for sexually assaulting several children. The entire church community is in a state of disbelief as the details continue to unfold. This incident emphasizes the need for vigilance when it comes to safeguarding our children.
The wave of these cases across various states serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of protecting our youth. It is crucial for communities to respond swiftly and effectively to allegations of abuse, ensuring that those responsible are held accountable while providing support to the victims. Stay informed, and let’s work together to create safe environments for all.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Shocking Arrest in Florence: Local Man Accused of Child Exploitation
Florence Man Arrested on Serious Charges
Florence Man Arrested in Disturbing Sexual Exploitation Case
Florence Man Arrested on Multiple Child Exploitation Charges
Shocking Arrest in Florence: Pee Dee Man Faces Serious Charges
Additional Resources
- WMBF News: Teen Pleads Guilty to Sexual Assault
- Wikipedia: Sexual Abuse of Minors
- WAFF: Fast Food Manager Accused of Sexual Relations with Minor
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Child Abuse
- NBC Philadelphia: Pastor Arrested for Molestation
- Google News: Sexual Abuse of Minors
- Julie Roys: Worship Leader Confesses to Abuse
- Google Search: Child Sexual Abuse Cases
- WAFF: Kentucky Man Accused of Relationship with Teen
- Google Scholar: Child Sexual Abuse
Author: STAFF HERE FLORENCE WRITER
FLORENCE STAFF WRITER The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
