NewsSNN NewsAugust 4, 2026Manatee
Polk County Sheriff's Office arrests Winter Haven pastor on sexual misconduct charges
A 42-year-old Winter Haven pastor was arrested by Polk County deputies following allegations of sexual contact with a 14-year-old boy and failure to disclose an HIV-positive status. The investigation was initiated after law enforcement received a cyber tip from the National Center for Missing and Endangered Children.
Read the full story at SNN NewsWhy It Matters
This case involves criminal charges against a local religious leader regarding the safety of a minor and public health disclosure requirements.
Key Facts
- A 42-year-old pastor from Winter Haven was arrested by Polk County deputies.
- The suspect is accused of having sexual contact with a 14-year-old boy.
- The suspect is accused of failing to disclose his HIV-positive status to the victim.
- The investigation began following a cyber tip from the National Center for Missing and Endangered Children (NCMEC).
- The arrest occurred during the winter season.
Who's Mentioned
other14“Age of the primary victim”locationWinter Haven“City where the suspect resided and served”organizationNational Center for Missing and Endangered Children“Provided the initial cyber tip that led to the investigation.”organizationCompassionate Care Hospice“Employer where Chaneyfield served as a chaplain”organizationPolk County Sheriff's Office“The law enforcement agency that conducted the investigation and arrest.”personTimothy Chaneyfield“42-year-old pastor and chaplain arrested on criminal charges”organizationPolk County Sheriff’s Office“Law enforcement agency conducting the investigation”personGrady Judd“Polk County Sheriff”organizationSt. James United American Free Will Baptist Church“Church where Chaneyfield served as pastor”other42“Age of the suspect”