Lindsey Whiteside, a former youth pastor, is accused of sexually assaulting an underage girl under her care in Mississippi
Starkville: A former youth pastor in Mississippi is in serious trouble. Lindsey Whiteside, just 26, has been accused of sexually assaulting a minor girl who was under her care.
She was arrested on November 21 after the allegations surfaced. The incidents reportedly happened between May and November 2024, according to local officials.
Whiteside was indicted on December 13 for felony sexual battery of a minor. It’s really concerning that this happened while the girl was in her guardianship.
District Attorney Matthew Barton confirmed the indictment, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation. He mentioned that it’s tough for victims to come forward, especially when it involves someone they trusted.
Before all this, Whiteside worked at Getwell Church Hernando as a youth ministry leader and even coached basketball at DeSoto Central High School. She was hired in August 2022 but lost her job once the allegations came to light.
In a sermon from 2022, she spoke passionately about Jesus and his love for everyone. It’s shocking to see such a contrast between her words and the accusations against her.
If found guilty, she could face up to 30 years in prison. Barton is urging anyone with more information or who has been affected to step forward. Every victim deserves to be heard, and they’re committed to making sure that happens.
The Independent has reached out to both the church and the school for comments on this troubling case.
