Ontario Youth Pastor Arrested on Befriending a Teen Online For Sex While HIV Positive
Read report below for the details:
A former Saskatoon youth pastor, Kris Allan Gowdy who tested positive for HIV, has been arrested in Ontario for allegedly trying to lure a 15 year old boy over the internet for sex.
Police allege Kris Gowdy befriended a 15 year old boy online then set up a location where they were to meet for sex. Police say the "boy" was actually an undercover officer and Gowdy was taken into custody. Police say that during the last decade he has held that position in a number of churches across Canada and the U.S., including Lakeview Church in Saskatoon.
Investigators are concerned there may be more victims nationwide including here in Saskatoon. Kris Gowdy, 42, worked until July of this year as a youth pastor at the Lakeview Church in Saskatoon from June 2011 to July 2012. Church officials say there were no complaints about him from the congregation.
Gowdy admitted to having been diagnosed with HIV. They allege he used the profile name "college toy 20-33" on a number of social media sites.
The church has brought in counselors to provide support for youth and families in the congregation.
"At the moment the primary concern of our church is our people, especially the youth in our care. We are focusing all of our time and attention on looking after our families," said Stark.
Investigators are concerned there may be other victims. Saskatoon police are asking anyone with information to come forward.Source
