Rushville, Ind. — A former local minister, Jerry W. Johnson, 57, of Rushville, was arrested Friday on charges of sexual battery, according to Rush County Sheriff Jeff Sherwood.

“Johnson was arrested Friday evening and has since posted bond and been released from jail,” Sherwood said.

Originally from the Decatur County area, at the time of his arrest Johnson was the minister at the First Baptist Church, 1431 West U.S. 52, Rushville.

RCSD chief deputy Duane Raab said Johnson is facing class “D” felony allegations of sexually battery against an unidentified 19-year-old female.

The charges stem from what is currently listed as an ongoing investigation.

“It is my understanding that the report has been forwarded to the prosecutor’s office and the investigation is still ongoing,” Raab said.

“At this time I am reviewing the case,” Rush County Prosecutor Paul Barada Jr. said Tuesday.

Although not confirmed by church officials, it has been reported that Johnson submitted a letter of resignation to the church over the weekend.

A call by the Rushville Republican to the church office was not returned Tuesday.

Read more on this story as additional information is made available.

Frank Denzler can be contacted at (765) 932-2222 ext. 106 or via e-mail at frank.denzler@rushvillerepublican.com. To add a comment to this story visit our Web site at www.rushvillerepublican.com.