Florida Pastor Arrested Following Cyber Tip Investigation as Authorities Search for Possible Additional Victims

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Florida Pastor Arrested Following Cyber Tip Investigation as Authorities Search for Possible Additional Victims

By AfroAsiaBlog Investigative Desk

A Florida pastor has been arrested after an investigation by the Polk County Sheriff's Office led to multiple felony charges involving alleged offenses against a minor.

Authorities say the investigation began after a cyber tip was submitted through the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, prompting detectives to examine alleged online communications between an adult and a child.

The suspect, Timothy Chaneyfield, 42, served as pastor of St. James United American Free Will Baptist Church in Winter Haven, Florida.

Investigation Began with a Cyber Tip

According to investigators, the case originated after law enforcement received a cyber tip reporting suspected inappropriate online communications involving an adult and a juvenile.

Detectives traced the communications and identified a teenage boy who later spoke with investigators.

Authorities allege the two initially connected through a dating application before continuing conversations through Instagram.

Investigators say the online communication later developed into several in-person meetings that are now central to the criminal investigation.


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Arrest Following Interstate Travel

According to the sheriff's office, detectives later learned that Chaneyfield had traveled to Baltimore for work in his capacity as a hospice chaplain.

After obtaining an arrest warrant, investigators coordinated with other law enforcement agencies and arrested him upon his return to Orlando International Airport.

He was later transferred to the Polk County Jail, where he remains in custody on bond set at more than $350,000, according to authorities.

Additional Allegations Surface

During the investigation, detectives said another adult complainant came forward with separate allegations involving Chaneyfield.

Authorities also allege that Chaneyfield failed to disclose his HIV-positive status before engaging in sexual activity in incidents referenced in the criminal charges.

Investigators stated they acted quickly to ensure appropriate medical care was provided to the juvenile involved after learning of the reported circumstances.

Charges Filed

According to the Polk County Sheriff's Office, Chaneyfield now faces numerous felony and misdemeanor charges, including allegations involving:

  • Lewd battery involving a minor.
  • Traveling to meet a minor.
  • Interference with child custody.
  • Unlawful use of a communication device.
  • Charges related to the alleged failure to disclose HIV-positive status before sexual activity.
  • Marijuana and drug paraphernalia possession offenses.

These charges represent allegations filed by prosecutors. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

Authorities Believe More Witnesses May Exist

Investigators have publicly stated they believe additional individuals with relevant information may not yet have spoken with law enforcement.

The Polk County Sheriff's Office is encouraging anyone who believes they have information connected to this investigation to contact detectives.

Officials say identifying additional witnesses could assist investigators as the case proceeds through the judicial system.

Community Response

The arrest has attracted significant attention because Chaneyfield previously held several community-facing positions, including employment with the local school district before entering church leadership.

Cases involving trusted community figures often generate heightened public concern due to the positions of responsibility they occupy.

Legal experts note that criminal cases involving allegations against clergy members typically receive extensive scrutiny while courts determine the facts presented by both prosecutors and defense attorneys.


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What Happens Next?

Chaneyfield is expected to appear in court as prosecutors continue pursuing the case.

Investigators have indicated that the inquiry remains active and that additional evidence or witnesses could emerge as the investigation continues.

AfroAsiaBlog will continue following verified developments and provide updates as official court proceedings move forward.

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