Summary (tl;dr)

Atlanta associate pastor Kenneth McFarland has been arrested and charged with second-degree cruelty to children after allegedly beating his 15-year-old stepson with a power cord, leading to his dismissal from 2819 Church.

Essential Background

Kenneth McFarland served as an associate pastor at 2819 Church in Atlanta, Georgia. Prior to the current events, he was known within the religious community and also operated a gun training business.

The Full Story

Kenneth McFarland, 42, was arrested on November 10, 2025, and subsequently charged with second-degree cruelty to children. The arrest followed an incident where his 15-year-old stepson arrived at Creekside Christian Academy in Hampton, Georgia, with dried blood on his pants. An assistant principal at the school noticed the injuries and contacted police. The child reported that McFarland had "disciplined" him by beating him with a power cord from a gaming system, resulting in documented bruising on his upper right thigh and lower buttocks. McFarland was booked into Henry County Jail and later released on a $2,500 bond. In response to the serious allegations, 2819 Church issued a statement confirming McFarland's indefinite suspension and that he had agreed to step down. He was formally dismissed from his position on November 18.

Why It Matters

This incident has drawn significant attention due to the severe nature of the child cruelty allegations against a religious leader, raising concerns about child safety and the accountability of individuals in positions of trust within the community. The swift action taken by 2819 Church, including McFarland's dismissal, underscores the gravity of the accusations and the institution's response to such serious matters. If convicted, McFarland could face a prison sentence of one to ten years, highlighting the legal consequences associated with the charges.

Geographic Location

• Hampton, Henry County, Georgia, United States (child reported injuries at Creekside Christian Academy)
• Stockbridge, Henry County, Georgia, United States (location of arrest)
• Henry County Jail, Henry County, Georgia, United States (where McFarland was booked and detained)
• Atlanta, Fulton County, Georgia, United States (location of 2819 Church, where Kenneth McFarland served as associate pastor)