Baltimore County, MD — A former youth minister with ties to an Assemblies of God church in Maryland is facing 24 felony and misdemeanor charges after six men accused him of sexual abuse that allegedly occurred between 2006 and 2010.
Allegations Against Thomas “Pastor Tommy” Pinkerton Jr.
According to NBC News, Thomas Pinkerton Jr., 52, known to congregants as Pastor Tommy, allegedly told members of his youth group that it was normal for a pastor to kiss boys on the lips because “that’s how Jesus greeted his disciples.” Police say the alleged abuse included inappropriate touching, kissing, and other sexual contact with boys aged 13 to 19.
The accusations span his time at Central Christian Church in Baltimore County and at his former home in Maryland. A seventh man reported abuse by Pinkerton in Georgia; that case has been referred to authorities there.
Arrest and Current Legal Proceedings
Pinkerton, a former traveling evangelist, was arrested in Georgia in July during a traffic stop by the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office. He was extradited to Maryland last week and is currently being held without bond. His attorney, Justin Hollimon, said his client has pleaded not guilty.
“He is a pastor. He gave his life to the community, worked for the community,” Hollimon told NBC News. “He’s anxiously waiting his day in court.”
A motion for a bond hearing has been filed after a judge denied his release.
Pattern of Abuse and “Heavenly Kisses”
According to the arrest warrant, multiple men told detectives that Pinkerton would greet them with what he called a “heavenly kiss” or “brotherly kiss” on the lips, claiming it was biblically inspired. Several alleged that he also gave them massages and touched them inappropriately, often calling them his “favorites” and referring to himself as a “spiritual father.”
Baltimore County police began investigating last fall after seven men came forward. Detectives believe there may be additional victims and are encouraging anyone with information to contact authorities.
Key Allegations in the Case:
- Abuse allegedly occurred at church premises and Pinkerton’s home.
- Victims were between 13 and 19 years old.
- Pinkerton allegedly used religious language to normalize sexual contact.
Assemblies of God Response
Assemblies of God officials told NBC News that while Pinkerton worked at an affiliated church, he was never formally credentialed with the denomination.
“We are so saddened to hear of this report, and are deeply concerned whenever reports like this come out,” said Benjamin Rainey Jr., secretary-treasurer for the Assemblies of God regional office overseeing Maryland.
Central Christian Church released a statement noting Pinkerton left over 15 years ago to start his own ministry and has had no affiliation since. The church added that more people have come forward with similar accounts from other states, stating, “There is absolutely no place for abuse — ever — in the church.”
Broader Denomination Under Scrutiny
The case comes as the Assemblies of God faces mounting criticism over its handling of abuse claims. NBC News recently reported on the denomination’s college ministry allegedly directing students to the home of Daniel Savala, a convicted sex offender once praised as “the holiest man alive.”
Days after the report, leaders addressed the issue at a biennial gathering in Orlando, pledging reforms to prevent future abuse.
Wider Preaching History and Church Reactions
In the years since the alleged Maryland abuse, Pinkerton has preached in at least six states and internationally in South America, Europe, and Asia. Some churches have acted quickly to sever ties.
The New Chapel in Grand Rapids, Michigan, said it cut ties months before his arrest, posting:
“Our prayers and continued cooperation are toward justice for the victims.”
Next Court Date
Authorities say an arrest warrant for Pinkerton was issued in late June. He is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on Sept. 5 in Baltimore County.
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