Former youth pastor charged with possession of child pornography in NW Harris Co., court docs show

HARRIS COUNTY, Texas (KTRK) -- A now-former youth pastor in northwest Harris County is arrested and charged with possession of child pornography, according to court documents.

The leadership of the Crossbridge Christian Church, located off Highway 290 in northwest Harris County, told ABC13 that Nathan Wayne Walker stepped down from his role two weeks ago.

Church leadership confirmed to ABC13 that they found out about Walker's arrest on Wednesday morning. On Wednesday afternoon, they confirmed he no longer works here.

He's charged with possession of child pornography videos and possession of child pornography images.

Court documents state that Walker is a youth pastor at Crossbridge Christian Church in northwest Harris County. He served as the youth pastor for 6th grade to 12th grade and was promoted last fall to associate pastor.

Documents state that in July, a member of the Houston Metro Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force received two cyber tips from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Investigators say that tips led them to a Yahoo instant messaging app associated with defendant Nathan Walker, who used the username "roughneckforchrist."

Investigators detail in court documents that Walker is accused of uploading and sharing files of child pornography of children as young as 3 to 7 years old.

Investigators go on to say his son discovered images on Walker's computer years ago and inappropriate discussions on a Discord app, but police say he told them Walker told him he was doing it "to catch the bad guys," according to court docs. He told officials he never discussed it with anyone else.

Church leadership sent ABC13 this statement, "We're saddened to hear the allegations. We will continue to monitor the investigation, praying for all involved and God's truth."

Walker's wife referred ABC13 to their attorney for comment, but has not heard back.

HCSO has not released Walker's booking photo, and he's expected in the 497th court on Thursday morning.

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