An Atlanta pastor was arrested for assaulting his stepson with a power cord, raising serious concerns about child cruelty. Kenneth McFarland, 42, an associate pastor at 2819 Church, faces charges following an incident that occurred on November 10, 2022, in Stockbridge, Georgia.
Incident Details
On the day of the incident, McFarland’s 15-year-old stepson attended a private Christian school in Hampton, Georgia, with blood-stained pants. The assistant principal noticed the blood and questioned the boy about its origin. The child disclosed that his father had “called himself disciplining” him.
Nature of the Assault
- The boy reported that McFarland struck him using an extension cord from a video game system.
- Injuries included bruises on the child’s thigh and rear end.
- The motive for the assault was reportedly the boy’s in-school suspension.
Legal Consequences
McFarland is charged with second-degree cruelty to children. Under Georgia law, a conviction could result in a prison sentence ranging from one to ten years.
Pastor’s Background
Alongside his pastoral duties, McFarland runs a gun training business named God Family Guns (GFG Trains). His business promotes a message of resilience and fighting back against life’s challenges.
Arrest and Reaction
Following the incident, McFarland was booked at the Henry County Jail and subsequently released on a $2,500 bond two days later. Attempts to reach out for comment from McFarland and Philip Anthony Mitchell, the head pastor of 2819 Church, were unsuccessful.
Church’s Context
2819 Church, which has a significant black congregation, previously operated under the name Victory Church. The name change occurred after difficulties during the COVID-19 pandemic. Pastor Mitchell has faced criticism for his comments about authority and police. He later issued an apology for these remarks.
As the case develops, it highlights the urgent need for awareness and safeguarding of children’s rights. The impact of such allegations on the church community remains to be seen.
