News Summary
Myron and Kathleen Chorbajian, a pastor and his wife from First Southern Methodist Church in Greenville, have been arrested in connection with a child sex abuse investigation. The couple faces serious charges related to allegations of extensive abuse against their eight children, raising grave concerns within the community. They are currently being held without bond while the investigation continues to unfold, with reports of horrific treatment and trauma experienced by the children.
Greenville, S.C. – Pastor and Wife Arrested for Child Abuse
Myron Chorbajian, the pastor of First Southern Methodist Church in Greenville, South Carolina, and his wife, Kathleen Chorbajian, were arrested on May 15, 2025, in Nashville, Tennessee. The couple was apprehended near the Grand Ole Opry and a Dave & Buster’s establishment after being wanted in connection with a significant child sex abuse investigation. Both have since been extradited back to Greenville to face serious charges.
Details of the Investigation
The investigation into the Chorbajians began in April 2025 following a report from a victim who detailed extensive abuse. The allegations concern their eight children, which include seven adopted children and one biological daughter. Preliminary findings indicate that the abuse reportedly started in the 1980s, with grave implications for all children involved. Reports show that all male children were subject to physical abuse, while all female children endured sexual abuse.
Compounding the tragedy, two of the alleged victims are now deceased, although the reasons for their deaths have not been made public.
Charges Filed Against Myron and Kathleen Chorbajian
Myron Chorbajian has been charged with multiple offenses including:
- Three counts of second-degree criminal sexual conduct with a minor
- Three counts of incest
- One count of second-degree criminal sexual conduct
- Fourteen counts of placing a child at risk
- Two counts of second-degree assault and battery
Kathleen Chorbajian faces the following charges:
- Fourteen counts of placing a child at risk
- Two counts of accessory after the fact
Both individuals have been denied bond and are currently held at Greenville County Detention Center as they await further legal proceedings.
Details of Allegations
The allegations against Myron Chorbajian include horrific actions that led to severe physical and emotional harm to the children. Among these claims are:
- Forcing a child to search dumpsters for food
- Beating a child with a belt, resulting in unconsciousness
- Stripping a child to their underwear and tying them to a basketball post for punishment
- Hitting a child with a coffee mug, which reportedly led to a diagnosis of epilepsy
- Killing a child’s dog and compelling them to bury it, as well as running over and shooting a child’s kitten in front of the child
Kathleen Chorbajian is accused of failing to intervene during these alleged abuses and also contributing to the harm experienced by the children. Specific allegations against her include:
- Forcing a child to consume a bar of soap
- Striking a child in the head with a skillet, leading to visible bruising and head trauma
Church’s Response
As of now, First Southern Methodist Church has not responded to inquiries regarding the situation surrounding the Chorbajian family and the ongoing investigations. The case has sent shockwaves through the community as it comes to light.
Community Impact
The revelations of such severe abuse within a family connected to a church have raised significant concern among local residents. Many are left questioning how such actions could go unnoticed for decades and what measures are being taken to protect children in similar situations. Investigators are continuing to probe the case, focusing on the well-being of the surviving children and ensuring that they receive the necessary support.
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Additional Resources
- WYFF4: Greenville County Pastor Charged with Child Sex Crimes
- Greenville Online: Pastor and Wife Arrested on Child Abuse Charges
- Fox Carolina: Greenville Pastor and Wife Charged with Child Abuse
- Wikipedia: Child Abuse
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Child Abuse
Author: STAFF HERE GREENVILLE
The HERE Greenville Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Greenville community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Greenville Our team includes lifelong Greenville residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sales in the Heritage Historic District 17 , Greenville’s textile and railroad heritage 2 , and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Greenville Technical College programs) 27 . Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Greenville Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
