Perry Co. pastor charged after allegedly creating AI child sexual abuse material

HINDMAN, Ky. – A Kentucky pastor has been charged after allegedly generating AI images of child sexual exploitation material.

According to a release by the Kentucky State Police, on Oct. 13 around 3:14 p.m., the KSP Electronic Crime Branch arrested 46-year-old Jared Oneil Salmons amid a child sexual abuse material investigation.

In a uniform citation, troopers say it was reported Salmons had distributed over 17 files of child sexual abuse material.

Authorities say while investigators interviewed Salmons, he admitted to “created AI-generated images” as well as owning a reported account associated with the case.

Salmons is currently charged with 17 counts of distributing matter portraying a minor under the age of 12 in a sexual performance. Distributing matter portraying a minor under the age of 12 in a sexual performance is a Class-C felony and is punishable by five to 10 years in prison.

Salmons was transported to the Kentucky River Regional Jail.

According to a report by K105, Salmons “is the pastor at Mt. Olivet Baptist Church in Cornettsville” in Perry County. The report additionally states, “He was also the general manager of the Knott County Water and Sewer District” and has since “been fired from that position.”