NETTIE, W.Va. (BP) — A former pastor of at least two Southern Baptist churches in West Virginia faces dozens of sexual abuse related charges.

A spokesperson for the West Virginia Convention of Southern Baptists (WVCSB) confirmed to Baptist Press that John Radcliff II has served as pastor of Nettie Baptist Church in Nettie, W.Va., and Calvary Baptist Church in Bolair, W.Va. He resigned from the Nettie Church after his initial arrest in September.

Radcliff’s wife Kathy was also arrested. She was allegedly aware of Radcliff’s crimes and perhaps facilitated them.

Radcliff is accused of abusing multiple young girls over the course of decades, beginning as early as 1987.

His arrest in September, stemming from events in 2018 and 2019, spurred a multi-county investigation, which led investigators to many more victims, some of whom were abused from the ages of 3 and 4 through 12 years old. Local news media reports that some victims came forward in 2004, but there were no findings from an investigation.

“The allegations against John Radcliff and his wife, Kathy, are unthinkably horrific,” the WVCSB said in a statement. “We are deeply grieved by this news. The WVCSB’s primary concern is for the care and protection of those impacted by this situation. Our Caring Well Task Force is working closely with the association to offer guidance and support to the affected churches.”

According to local news reports, many of the victims are Radcliff’s nieces. Radcliff allegedly forced them to perform sex acts on him and sexually abused them multiple times throughout their childhoods.

“First and foremost, our prayers are with those who have been harmed and the churches affected, asking God to bring healing, peace and restoration,” the WVCSB statement said. “We also pray for the Radcliffs, asking God to lead them to confession and to repentance. We recognize that sin brings painful and far-reaching consequences, but God’s mercy and grace through Christ offer redemption and the power to rebuild what is broken. Finally, we lift up our law enforcement and judicial system, trusting them to seek the truth and administer justice in accordance with the law.

“While the WVCSB does not hold direct governance or authority over Southern Baptist congregations in West Virginia, we are committed to providing support during times of crisis. Our desire is for churches and ministries in our state to be safe for survivors and free from abuse, reflecting the gospel. We aim to assist churches in fostering healthy relationships within their congregations and communities while promoting best practices during challenging circumstances.”

The WVCSB has established an in-state sexual abuse hotline, available 24/7. The number is 304.760.8994. “This confidential resource provides assistance in reporting abuse and seeking support related to sexual misconduct,” the statement said.

Radcliff faces charges in several West Virginia counties. Bond has been set at more than $1 million.

If you are/have been a victim of sexual abuse or suspect sexual abuse by a pastor, staff member or member of a Southern Baptist church or entity, please reach out for help at 202-864-5578 or [email protected]. All calls are confidential.

(EDITOR’S NOTE — Laura Erlanson is managing editor of Baptist Press.)