Pastor who raged against 'Heartstopper' and Pride Flags arrested for child sexual abuse

An Ohio pastor known for his vehement opposition to LGBTQ+ representation in schools has been arrested on multiple charges of child sexual abuse. Silas H. Shelton, 48, of Blanchester Community Church, was taken into custody on 16 October and is currently being held on a $2 million bond.

Shelton faces serious allegations including rape, sexual battery, unlawful sexual conduct with a minor, and gross sexual imposition. The charges stem from incidents involving a teenage girl in his congregation, who was reportedly 14 or 15 years old when the abuse began in 2019. According to police, the abuse continued until earlier this year.

A detective involved in the case described the situation as one of manipulation and grooming, with the victim allegedly feeling “trapped” due to Shelton’s position of religious authority. Shelton has pleaded not guilty, and authorities are urging anyone with further information to contact Detective Codey Juillerat.

The arrest comes just two years after Shelton publicly denounced LGBTQ+ books and Pride flags in schools. Speaking at a Little Miami Local School District board meeting in 2023, he criticised the presence of the graphic novel Heartstopper at a school book fair, claiming it promoted “gay pressure” and questioning of sexuality among children. He also described Pride flags in classrooms as “a disgusting display” that caused division. 

Following his comments, the school district temporarily suspended book fairs and later restricted them to evening hours during parent-teacher conferences.