In a small town in North Carolina, a longtime pastor’s reputation is under serious scrutiny following a disturbing incident.
Jeffrey Smith, a 67-year-old pastor who served Mebane Presbyterian Church for over two decades, has been charged with sexual battery after an incident inside a local Walmart.
Allegations in a Walmart Restroom
According to police reports, the alleged incident took place in the men’s restroom of a Walmart in Mebane, North Carolina.
Authorities claim Smith approached a man and forcibly groped him, grabbing the victim’s genitals through his clothing.
The victim, whose identity remains private, immediately reported the assault to the police.
Arrest Near a Gas Station
After the alleged assault, Smith reportedly fled the scene.
However, police located and arrested him a short distance away behind a nearby Sheetz gas station.
Smith now faces one count of sexual battery, a serious charge that carries significant consequences if he is convicted.
Consequences and Legal Implications
Sexual battery, under North Carolina law, can result in up to 90 days in jail.
More notably, according to defense attorney Daniel Meier, it could also lead to Smith being placed on the sex offender registry for at least 30 years.
Meier emphasized the weight of such a conviction, stating that being registered as a sex offender brings lifelong stigma and restrictions.
A Pastor’s History and Sermon on Forgiveness
Jeffrey Smith had been the pastor at Mebane Presbyterian Church for 25 years.
Prior to that, he served at Wabash Presbyterian Church and held roles as an organist and choir director in other churches.
His recent sermons, however, take on a different light in the wake of the charges.
Just last month, he delivered a message on forgiveness and mercy.
In a Facebook post, Smith reflected on how everyone wants forgiveness when they make a mistake, but questioned how willing people are to offer mercy to others.
Personal Life and Church Response
Smith’s personal life, once seen as a pillar of stability, also came into the spotlight.
He had recently shared that he and his wife were celebrating their 40th wedding anniversary.
Despite these personal milestones, the church has taken immediate action in response to the charges.
Smith has been placed on administrative leave while the legal process unfolds.
Released on Bond: What’s Next?
Smith posted a $3,000 bond and was released from police custody on the day of his arrest.
As the case moves forward, both the church and the community wait to see what impact these serious allegations will have on his long-standing career and personal life.