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NewsWFLA News TampaAugust 4, 2026Hillsborough

Polk County Sheriff's Office arrests Winter Haven pastor for sexual contact with a minor

A 42-year-old Winter Haven pastor was arrested following an investigation into allegations of sexual contact with a 14-year-old boy. The suspect is also accused of failing to disclose his HIV-positive status to the victim.

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Why 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 the Polk County Sheriff's Office.
  • 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 was initiated following a cyber tip from the National Center for Missing and Endangered Children (NCMEC).

Who's Mentioned

organizationCompassionate Care Hospice“Employer where Chaneyfield served as chaplain”organizationPolk County Sheriff’s Office“Law enforcement agency conducting the investigation”personGrady Judd“Polk County Sheriff”locationWinter Haven“The city where the pastor resided/operated.”personTimothy Chaneyfield“42-year-old pastor and hospice chaplain arrested on criminal charges”organizationSt. James United American Free Will Baptist Church“Church where Chaneyfield served as pastor”organizationNational Center for Missing and Endangered Children“Provided the initial cyber tip”other14“Age of the primary victim”organizationPolk County Sheriff's Office“The law enforcement agency that conducted the investigation and made the arrest.”other42“Age of the suspect”