Community in Turmoil as Details Emerge
The Atlanta faith community is reeling after
Kenneth McFarland, associate pastor at the prominent 2819 Church, was arrested and charged with child cruelty following disturbing allegations that he beat his 15-year-old stepson with a power cord until the boy bled. The incident, which came to light after the teen arrived at school with visible injuries, has sparked outrage and prompted swift action from church leadership.
How the Allegations Came to Light
The case broke open when an assistant principal at Creekside Christian Academy in Hampton, Georgia, noticed blood on the student’s pants and questioned him about his injuries. The boy disclosed that McFarland had struck him with a power cord from his gaming system as punishment for receiving an in-school suspension. School officials immediately contacted police, triggering a criminal investigation.
Church Responds with Immediate Action
2819 Church, located on Greenbriar Parkway in Atlanta, responded decisively. McFarland was
immediately suspended upon news of his arrest and agreed to step down while the church reviewed the situation. By November 18, church officials announced his
formal dismissal, emphasizing a zero-tolerance stance on abuse and a commitment to child safety.
“The arrest of Pastor Kenneth McFarland underscores a grave breach of trust. His swift removal from ministry reflects the seriousness of the allegations. The community now watches as the legal process unfolds,” the church stated.
Legal Fallout and Potential Consequences
McFarland, 42, faces a charge of
second-degree cruelty to children, a felony under Georgia law that carries a potential prison sentence of one to ten years if convicted. He was booked into Henry County Jail and released two days later on a
$2,500 bond. The Stockbridge Police Department’s report details the severity of the injuries, including bruising on the boy’s thigh and rear end.
Spotlight on Accountability and Church Culture
This case has sent shockwaves through Atlanta’s religious circles, raising urgent questions about
accountability and
child protection within faith-based organizations. The church’s rapid response—suspending and then firing McFarland—has been seen as an attempt to restore trust and reassure the congregation that abuse will not be tolerated.
Who Is Kenneth McFarland?
Before his arrest, McFarland was known as an associate pastor and the owner of GFG Trains (God Family Guns), a business focused on gun training and self-defense. His public persona included provocative statements about “fighting back” against personal and societal challenges, which now stand in stark contrast to the allegations against him.
What’s Next for the Church and Community?
The 2819 Church, now led by Pastor Philip Anthony Mitchell, faces the difficult task of healing a congregation shaken by betrayal and scandal. For the victim and his family, the road to recovery will be long and complex. The broader Atlanta community is watching closely as the legal process unfolds, hoping for justice and renewed vigilance in protecting vulnerable children.
Takeaways and Future Implications
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Swift action by institutions is critical in abuse cases to protect victims and maintain public trust.
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Transparency and accountability are essential for faith-based organizations facing internal crises.
- The case highlights the ongoing need for
robust child protection policies in all community institutions.
As the story develops, all eyes remain on the courts—and on how Atlanta’s faith leaders respond to this painful reckoning.
Sources
1. Atlanta Pastor Kenneth McFarland Arrested After Stepson ...
2. Former Liberty U Staff Says Pres & VP Sexually Harassed Her
3. Who is Kenneth McFarland? Atlanta pastor arrested for ...
4. [PDF] Court Watch - Kansas Municipal Judges Association
5. Atlanta Megachurch Pastor Arrested for Child Cruelty After ...
6. Breaking World News Today - Hindustan Times
7. Pastor Charged With Child Cruelty After Allegedly Beating ...
8. Success Principles of a Hall of Fame Speaker with Don Hutson
9. Kenneth McFarland Archives
10. [PDF] ADMINISTRATIVE HISTORY OF BROWN v. BOARD OF ...
11. Kenneth McFarland Arrested: Atlanta's 2819 Church Pastor ...
