A youth pastor from Alpharetta, Georgia, has been arrested on multiple charges related to child pornography. Daniel Menelaou, 28, was taken into custody after an investigation revealed he used a messaging app to share and download explicit videos involving minors. The case has raised serious concerns within the community and the church he served.
Key Takeaways
- Daniel Menelaou, 28, arrested for possession of child pornography.
- Charged with six felony counts related to explicit materials involving minors.
- Investigation initiated after a cyber tip-off to the Roswell Police Department.
- Futures Church, where Menelaou worked, expressed shock and condemned his actions.
Details of the Arrest
The Roswell Police Department’s Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) unit began investigating Menelaou after receiving a cyber tip in February. The investigation revealed that he had been using the messaging app Kik to send and receive sexually explicit videos of children.
On March 11, police executed a search warrant at Menelaou’s residence in Roswell, where they seized multiple electronic devices. During questioning, Menelaou reportedly confessed to his actions, admitting to having an addiction to pornography.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Menelaou faces six felony counts of possessing or controlling materials depicting minors in sexually explicit conduct. Each charge carries a $20,000 surety bond, totaling $120,000. The legal proceedings are ongoing, and authorities have indicated that additional charges may be forthcoming as the investigation continues.
Community Reaction
The arrest has sent shockwaves through the community, particularly among the congregation of Futures Church, where Menelaou served as a youth pastor. In a statement, church officials expressed their horror at the allegations, stating:
"The charges against Daniel Menelaou are abhorrent, appalling, and completely contrary to everything we stand for. We are horrified by what has been revealed and categorically condemn these actions in the strongest possible terms."
The church emphasized its commitment to child protection and stated that Menelaou was placed on administrative leave immediately upon learning of his arrest. His position has since been terminated.
Implications for the Church and Community
Futures Church has reiterated its zero-tolerance policy regarding any form of abuse and has committed to supporting victims of exploitation. The church is cooperating fully with law enforcement to ensure justice is served and to protect the community’s vulnerable members.
Local residents have expressed their shock and concern, particularly given Menelaou’s role as a youth pastor. One neighbor remarked, "It’s very scary to think that someone who was supposed to be a role model for children could be involved in such egregious behavior."
Conclusion
The arrest of Daniel Menelaou highlights the ongoing issue of child exploitation and the importance of vigilance in protecting children from harm. As the investigation unfolds, the community remains on alert, hoping for justice and healing for any potential victims involved.
Sources
- Roswell police charge youth pastor with possession of child sexual abuse materials, Yahoo.
- This website is unavailable in your location. – 95.5 WSB, 95.5 WSB.
- This website is unavailable in your location. – WSB-TV Channel 2, WSB-TV.
- Youth pastor at Alpharetta church arrested on child porn charges, Atlanta News First.
- Roswell man and youth pastor arrested for possession of child porn, FOX 5 Atlanta.
