Ryan McElrath, an employee at Fellowship Bible Church, 141 Pleasant Plains Road, was arrested and booked into the Madison County Criminal Justice Complex on charges for sexual battery by an authority figure, statutory rape, and statutory rape by an authority figure – forcible rape, Tuesday.
McElrath, 39, was arrested at a residence on Willow Green Drive by the Jackson Police Department.
According to a statement from Fellowship Bible Church –
Ryan McElrath is no longer employed at Fellowship due to criminal charges filed June 11. Within hours of the allegations, the matter was investigated, Ryan admitted to the violation, and was terminated.
The church immediately supported the victim in reporting the allegations to local law enforcement and notified parents and students.
The church is cooperating fully with local authorities and is engaging an external agency to audit church policies and procedures as well as provide guidance on continued care for the victim and the church. Our priority continues to be the privacy and well-being of the victim, the victim’s family, our students and their parents.
 “As a church community we are absolutely devastated by this. And, as a parent, I share in our God’s outrage and grief when the innocent are harmed. We are acting in cooperation with law enforcement in caring for the victim and the victim’s family.” Eugene Brandt, Lead Pastor Fellowship.
According to a statement from the Jackson Police Department –
On June 11, 2024, the Jackson Police Department was made aware of possible inappropriate activity involving Ryan McElrath, an employee of Fellowship Bible Church, and a juvenile. Investigators with the Jackson Police Department spoke with the juvenile and other parties involved to gather information on the case. Information gathered during the course of the investigation was presented to the 26th Judicial District Attorney’s Office for review.
After speaking with the 26th Judicial District Attorney’s Office and evidence gathered from investigators, McElrath was formally charged with multiple felony and misdemeanor charges related to sexual assault. McElrath was arraigned in Jackson City Court on this date after posting a $70,000.00 bond. McElrath’s charges include Aggravated Statutory Rape, Sexual Battery, Sexual Battery by an Authority Figure, and Sexual Contact with a Minor.
Church leaders have been cooperative throughout the course of the investigation. McElrath’s employment has been terminated by Fellowship Bible Church.
This is an ongoing investigation. Anyone having any additional information is encouraged to contact the Jackson Police Department at 731-425-8400.
(PHOTO: Ryan McElrath)
