Former Katy pastor accused of child pornography

KATY, TX (KTRK) -- A former Katy pastor is now in jail, accused of possessing and promoting child pornography.

Timothy Douglas, 49, surrendered himself Thursday morning at the Fort Bend County jail, more than a year after authorities began investigating him.

According to court documents the Houston Metro Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force traced downloads of images of child pornography to an IP address registered at Douglas' home. Authorities served a search warrant there in January, seizing more than a dozen computers, phones and hard drives on which they later reportedly discovered the images. The hardware contained both pictures and videos showing boys and girls, some as young as five to seven years old, engaged in various acts of sex.

Investigators say Douglas was not only downloading those images, but also sharing them online. "We're very concerned when we find child pornography being shared, especially when you have a person who's in a position where they can influence - especially children," said Fort Bend County Sheriff's Sgt. Timothy Morris.

Until eight months ago Douglas was a pastor at the Creekside Community Church in Katy, which now holds services in the 9thgrade center at Morton Ranch High School. Church officials would not respond to our questions about Douglas other than to say that he is no longer a part of the church.

Folks who live nearby are disturbed the allegations against Douglas, particularly because a pastor, generally, is someone most would trust.

"Katy's growing, and you hear every other day: Kids -- watch out for your kid at the bus stop... or whatever else. You're just not safe anywhere anymore," said Brittany Scally, who laments how prevalent child predators seem these days.

Douglas is in custody at the Fort Bend County Jail. His bonds total $130,000. We asked him if he would like to share his side of the story or his response to the allegations. He declined.