Alabama Minister Accused of Sexually Abusing Child

By Ashley Remkus
AL.com
December 16, 2016

http://www.al.com/news/huntsville/index.ssf/2016/12/alabama_minister_accused_of_se.html

An Alabama children's minister has been arrested on an accusation he inappropriately touched a child.

James McNeal

James Vernon McNeal, 39, is charged with sexual abuse of a child younger than 12, a Class B felony. If convicted, McNeal faces two to 20 years in prison. He was released from the Madison County Jail after posting $30,000 bail on Thursday.

McNeal, a children's minister at Bethlehem Baptist Church in Hazel Green, is accused of abusing a child from the church, said Madison County sheriff's Lt. Brian Chaffin.

"We're still investigating," Chaffin said. "But, we don't expect there are any other victims."

However, he said, anyone who wishes to speak with an investigator should contact the Sheriff's Office.

Investigators began probing the case this week when authorities were notified a crime may have been committed.

"McNeal has been terminated and isn't allowed on the property," lead Pastor Lon Ostrzycki told AL.com's news partner WHNT-19.

Anyone with information, questions or concerns should contact the Sheriff's Office at 256-722-7181.

Further details were not immediately available.

Contact: aremkus@al.com