Liberty County pastor arrested, charged with child sex crimes, officials say

LIBERTY COUNTY, Texas (KTRK) -- From the pulpit to behind bars, Liberty County officials say they arrested and charged a pastor with child sex crimes.

It's been a challenge to get information on this case from officials and the courthouse.

Records confirm George Finney, the pastor at New Life Kenefick in Liberty County, is facing multiple charges, including continuous sexual abuse of a child 14 or younger.

The sheriff's office told ABC13 that a report against Finney was made on June 19.

Officials say a juvenile victim made an outcry to an adult, who then went straight to authorities.

Jail records show Finney was arrested on Monday and charged with continuous sexual abuse of a child, indecency with a child, and assault on a family member impeding breath.

Investigators say the crimes started in 2024.

The district clerk has yet to release the court documents for this case, so we're awaiting more context.

The sheriff's office says it is unaware of any additional victims, but there may be more.

Outside of his church on Wednesday afternoon, his name was displayed on the sign. No one at the church has returned our calls or responded to our requests for comment.

Finney's wife answered the door on Wednesday afternoon while holding their newborn child.

She told ABC13 she's shocked and doesn't believe he would do something like this.

She told Eyewitness News that the church will make a statement to the congregation during their mid-week service tonight.