FLOWOOD, Miss. (WJTV) – A Flowood youth pastor has been arrested and charged on two counts of felony exploitation of a child.
Flowood police arrested Tyler Swaggard, 21, on Tuesday after investigating multiple complaints from youth members of Pinelake.
Swaggard is being housed in Rankin County jail without bond and awaiting his initial court appearance set for Wednesday, December 22.
Pinelake issued the following statement.
“We are aware of the recent arrest and charges involving a former Pinelake staff member. When the allegations were first brought to our attention, we quickly reported it and began working closely with authorities to assess the situation. These charges are very serious and deeply disturbing. It is a heartbreaking betrayal of our standards, especially from someone in a position of trust. Our priority is to shepherd and care for our church family, and we will continue to work diligently to provide care and support to all those affected by this situation.”