The leadership of New Life Church in Kenefick has released its first public statement since Pastor George Finney was arrested Monday, June 29, on multiple felony charges, saying he was immediately relieved of his duties after church leaders learned of the allegations.
Finney, 52, was arrested at his home in Dayton by deputies with the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office following an investigation that authorities said began after a public outcry.
He is charged with Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child Under 14 Years of Age, Indecency With a Child by Exposure and Assault Causing Bodily Injury/Family Violence. Bond was set at $50,000 on each charge for a total of $150,000.
Finney has served as pastor of New Life Church for several years and was one of the organizers of Liberty’s annual National Day of Prayer observance. His prominent role in the local faith community has made news of his arrest particularly shocking to many residents.
In a statement released Thursday, July 2, the church’s Board of Advisors and Leadership said it is aware of the allegations and is cooperating with the ongoing investigation.
“We, the Leadership of New Life Kenefick, are aware of the serious allegations and criminal charges involving our Pastor George Finney,” the statement reads. “From the moment we were made aware of these allegations, he was relieved of his duties here at our church.”
Church leaders also expressed concern for those affected by the case.
“We are deeply saddened and our hearts go out to all who are being affected by this, especially the victim and her family,” the statement said.
The church said it is cooperating fully with law enforcement and the legal process and emphasized that it takes “the safety and wellbeing of children and vulnerable individuals very seriously.”
Because the investigation is ongoing, church leaders said they will not comment further and asked for privacy for those involved.
When Bluebonnet News first reported Finney’s arrest, Liberty County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Billy Knox said the investigation began after what he described as a public outcry. As of Thursday, investigators have not released additional details regarding the allegations, including the circumstances of the investigation or the age of the alleged victim or victims.
Bluebonnet News attempted to contact Finney by telephone prior to the publication of the original story but did not receive a response.