The indictment of Lindsey Whiteside, a 26-year-old former youth pastor from Southaven, Mississippi, alleges that while serving at Getwell Church in Hernando, Mississippi, she engaged in sexual battery of a minor between May 14 and November 16, 2024. The grand jury specified that Whiteside held a position of trust or authority over the victim during this period.
Employment Terminated Following Allegations
Upon learning of the allegations, Getwell Church leadership terminated Whiteside’s employment. In communication with The Roys Report, church officials stated, “Her employment was terminated as soon as the allegations came to light.” Whiteside had been employed at the church since August 2022 as a full-time student and outreach coordinator.?
Previous Coaching Role at Local High School
Before her tenure at Getwell Church, Whiteside was an assistant girls’ basketball coach at DeSoto Central High School. DeSoto County District Attorney Matthew Barton emphasized the gravity of the charges, noting that individuals in such positions bear a significant responsibility to protect and guide others. He stated, “Sexual abuse and exploitation inflict lasting harm on victims, that often last for a lifetime.
Legal Proceedings and Potential Sentence
Whiteside was arrested in November 2024 and charged with one count of felony sexual battery against a minor. She pleaded not guilty to the December 30, 2024 charge and is currently out on a $60,000 bond. If convicted, she faces up to 30 years in prison.
Call for Additional Victims to Come Forward
District Attorney Barton has urged other potential victims to come forward, acknowledging the difficulty of doing so, especially when trusted figures are involved. He said, “Every victim deserves to be heard, and our office is committed to ensuring their voices are not silenced.”
Community Reactions and Concerns
The charges against Whiteside have elicited strong reactions from supporters and community detractors. Supporters express shock and disappointment, emphasizing the breach of trust by someone in a leadership role. While condemning the alleged actions, Detractors caution against a rush to judgment before the legal process concludes. The case has sparked broader discussions about safeguarding measures within religious and educational institutions to prevent such incidents.
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Former Mississippi Youth Pastor Charged with Sexually Assaulting Underage Girl
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