TROY - Troy residents are shocked and upset to learn that Michael Mohler, 26, a youth pastor at United First Methodist Church was arrested for allegedly having an inappropriate relationship with a teenage girl at the church.
âHe should be punished more because he is a preacher, he should know better, itâs not rightâ said Jesse Macy, Churchgoer.
Police say the relationship between Mohler and the teenager started innocently, but over several months turned sexual. Some residents familiar with the church say more vetting should be done.
âIâm not sure what should be done, Iâm not sure if they need to do more background checks. Find out more information about the people that are role models in the church thatâs for sureâ said Carrie Kemper, Troy resident.
First United Methodist Church issued a statement on Mohlerâs arrest saying:
"Yesterday a member of our pastoral staff, Michael Mohler, was arrested and charged with 3rd degree sexual battery. We take any such allegations extremely seriously.
Upon learning of his arrest and the nature of the charges, we immediately removed Mr. Mohler from any position on our pastoral team and relieved him of all of his responsibilities at our church. We are cooperating fully with the authorities as they pursue the facts.
As we learn more about this situation, please know that we are shocked and deeply saddened and appeal for patience, grace and prayer for our congregation, for the young person who made the allegations and her family, for our colleague, and for all who may be affected by this situation.â
Police say for weary parents, red flags occasionally present themselves even amongst those in a position of trust with children.
âHave an open line of communication, and I would be careful if somebody seems very interested in spending time aloneâ said Det. Lt. Steve Lord, Miami County Sheriffâs Office.
Michael Mohler, 26, was placed in the Miami County Jail on a $100,000 bond.