A school bus driver and youth pastor in Powell County facing shocking allegations faced a judge Tuesday to plead not guilty to the charges against him.
52-year-old Steve Williams is accused of sexually abusing at least two minors and was arraigned in a Powell County courtroom via closed circuit television.
Williams was a school bus driver for Powell County Schools and pastor of the Bowen First Church of God for about two and a half years. Powell County deputies say the church has one of the largest youth groups in the area, and Williams was very involved with many children in the congregation.
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“It’s somebody we trust with our children. It’s not just some guy at the grocery store that rolls your buggy out and helps you with groceries. He’s driving a bus, he’s taking care of our children,” said Powell County resident Don Reeves.
Authorities were first alerted about the alleged misconduct by the Powell County Board of Education on Thursday, after a student who attends Powell County Middle School reported that she had been sexually abused by Williams.
Following the allegations, Powell County school officials immediately suspended Williams from busing students. Hours later, Powell County deputies received another complaint accusing Williams of sexual misconduct; this time with a 16-year-old girl. Investigators say Williams has been fairly cooperative, adding that he became emotional when being interviewed.
Police raided the church Friday night, removing computers and cell phones Williams may have used. He has no previous criminal history but investigators say they need to make sure there aren’t any other minors Williams may have taken advantage of.
Authorities say at this point, they have a very strong case against Williams. The judge refused to lower Williams’ bond. It will remain at $300,000. Per Williams’ attorney, he has resigned his position as a youth pastor.
He was also fired from his position as a bus driver.
