'Pastor' accused of sexual abuse

WAFF News, Alabama/October 27, 2006

A self-proclaimed pastor is out on bond after being charged with first degree sexual abuse of a child under 12.

32-year-old Victor Young Pickett of Decatur is a man many know as "Pastor P."

Pickett is accused of committing the crime six months ago.

"Back in April, we had a child report to his elementary school teacher that a person he knew as Pastor P. had touched him in an inappropriate manner," says Decatur Police Lieutenant Chris Mathews.

The crime allegedly happened in Pickett's apartment, on 8th Street South West in Decatur.

His home is near a family with children.

"My concern about the kids, you know, because I have small kids. Too much going on because if he did do this, this is very wrong you know, and I don't like that in my area," says a woman named Rachel.

The WAFF 48 Investigators decided to ask Pickett himself if he committed the crime he's accused of.

Reporter: "Are you Mr. Pickett? My name is Robyn McGlohn with Channel 48. I was wondering if maybe we could talk with you about the recent allegations?"

Pickett: "No I can't. You'll have to talk to my attorney."

In the end, through the crack in his door, he did answer one of our questions.

Reporter: "Are you appalled at the allegations made against you?"

Pickett: "Yeah."

According to The Decatur Daily, this is the second time Pickett's been indicted in six years.

In January of 2000 he was arrested on charges of first degree sodomy, first degree sexual abuse and second degree sexual abuse, but those charges were later dismissed.

Pickett is out on a $25,000 bond. He is awaiting his trial date.

The Decatur Daily reports that there are no known records that Pickett is an ordained minister.