Former Youth Pastor Faces Six Felony Charges
Daniel Menelaou, a 28-year-old former youth pastor at Futures Church Alpharetta, has been arrested on six counts of possessing child sexual abuse material. Menelaou, who previously worked at multiple Futures Church campuses, allegedly used the messaging app Kik to send and download explicit videos of children. Authorities seized several electronic devices from his home after executing a search warrant on March 11.
Church Responds with Immediate Termination
Futures Church Alpharetta placed Menelaou on leave immediately upon learning of his arrest. Two days later, the church officially fired him after understanding the “full extent” of his charges. The church described the charges as “abhorrent, appalling, and completely contrary to everything we stand for.” Leaders emphasized their zero-tolerance policy for abuse and affirmed their commitment to protecting the vulnerable.
Investigation and Law Enforcement Concerns
According to law enforcement officials, Menelaou allegedly confessed to the crimes and admitted to having an addiction to pornography. Fulton County police are investigating whether his role as a youth pastor provided further opportunities for misconduct. When someone in a position of authority over young people engages in this behavior, we take it very seriously,” said Sergeant Lupo of Fulton County.
Community Reaction and Ongoing Legal Proceedings
Neighbors and community members expressed shock and concern over the arrest, particularly given Menelaou’s leadership role in the church. “The fact that he’s a youth pastor and around children all the time is very scary,” said resident Tama Meixner.
Menelaou remains in custody at Fulton County Jail on a $120,000 surety bond. As the investigation continues, his next court hearing is scheduled for April.
Source:
Georgia Pastor Tied to Global Megachurch Arrested for Possessing Child Sex Abuse Material
Photo by Wesley Tingey on Unsplash
About Post Author
