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Youth Pastor at Conestee Church Charged With Sexual Misconduct

Charges stem from incidents in 2009 and 2010.

The Greenville County Sheriff's Office has charged 29 year-old Joshua Hugh Finney with with Criminal Sexual Conduct with a minor 2nd Degree and Lewd Act on a Minor.

In April, a 17 year-old female notified the authorities that she first met Finney when was her Bible study leader and youth pastor at First Baptist Church Conestee in early 2008. She was 13 years-old at the time.

Investigators say that in November 2009 Finney allegedly kissed the victim and then in December 2010 Finney allegedly had sexual intercourse with the victim, who was 15 years old at the time.

Finney turned himself in earlier on Tuesday and is currently in the detention center awaiting a bond hearing. 

First Baptist Church Conestee is located near Donaldson Center about a mile south of Conestee Dam.

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Wayne Federline May 29, 2012 at 07:51 pm
Whens the hanging?
So Sad June 7, 2012 at 05:07 pm
This Josh Finney is the very lowest type of person. A married man, hiding behind religion and secretly preying on children. Yet one more indication that these types respect nothing and are therefore dangerous repeat offenders. PLEASE do not turn him loose on society again. Someone else may get hurt. Folks like this are sick and need to be removed permanently from society. If you think this is an overreaction I urge you to consider: What if your child is his next victim? Independent Fundamental Baptist churches seem to be a haven for these sickos. Just Google "Christopher McCall arrested" (was a preacher on WTBI FM 91.5)
Teddy July 15, 2012 at 09:38 pm
I have been in this church, and I will only tell you that Pastor Tony Finney is one of the best, if not the best pastors I have ever been around. I sincerely hate this for him, as well everyone involved. I must remind the comments above that Christians are not perfect, nor will they escape punishment for the things they do wrong. I too must remind you that not accepting Jesus Christ into your heart will be punished ultimately! Finally, I assure you that there are no sins supported at this church by Pastor Tony Finney. It takes a fool to accuse Indepent Baptist, as a "haven," for this sin, or any other sin. The truth is, it's about the only group left that will uphold the name of Jesus Christ! Keep your eyes on Jesus, the only perfect example. It would be very interesting to me to learn of the institution that had perfect people in them!
Teddy
unknown August 4, 2012 at 07:47 pm
I was a member of this church and even did a little baby sitting for the pastor when Josh was younger. I agree with the message before that Pastor Finney would not uphold anyone in his family or church family doing sin. It is fitting to say that we are not perfect, and we all have sin in our lives, but I have one question, if this was my 13 year old daughter when this happened why wait to have charges brought up. I am continuing to pray for all that are involved, and know that in the end justice will prevail. We are not to judge each other, and the only judge we have is Christ, and if forgiveness is asked, then it will be granted. I just want the church to know that I love everyone there and will continue to pray for them. It breaks my heart, because I know that Pastor Finney and his family are loving, giving, forgiving, and in my opinion one of the best families I know...
Unknown May 15, 2013 at 05:58 pm
What about the little whore that went after him with all her might saw it with my own eyes pastor and mrs Finney are the best pastor and pastors wife ever do not talk against them they r the most loving compassionate forgiving unselfish people I've ever met
Broken Hearted Church Member May 22, 2013 at 10:55 am
There is nothing in these posting at say a word about Pastor and Mrs. Finney. They are indeed loving and compassionate people. The same cannot be said about Joshua. He confessed twice before the church about his inappropriate behavior with the young girl. "Little whore"!!!! Really? She was an innocent child. What you saw with your own eyes was a married man in a position of leadership take advantage of a child and have an inappropriate relationship with her, starting when she was 14. He admitted his guilt and now is hiding in NC while his high priced lawyer delays the trial. He should come back and pled guilty and accept the punishment for his crime. I am a member of First Baptist of Conestee and love Pastor and Mrs. Finney but have no respect for any man that would prey on a child. Four questions must be answered in this case. Who knew? What did they know? When did they know? What did they do about it? The truth needs to come out.

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Linda June 7, 2013 at 12:33 am
All residents of Mauldin need to voice their concern about this balant disregard of human safety onRead More the part of Greenville Water Co. Let your voice be heard by contacting Murray Dodd, Operations Director @ 864-241-6000.