Maranya Shobe : Former Church Employee Pleads Not Guilty to Child Abuse Charges

Accident – Death – Obituary News : : 1. First Baptist Church employee child abuse case
2. Former church employee pleads not guilty to child abuse charges

Former First Baptist Church employee Maranya Shobe pleaded not guilty to 10 counts of third-degree criminal abuse against a child 12 or under in Bowling Green, Ky. The incidents involved seven different juveniles, as revealed by District Court Judge Brent Potter and the County Attorney’s Office after reviewing surveillance footage. Shobe was seen carrying children in a risky manner, causing potential injuries. This is not an isolated incident, as a separate employee was also involved in a similar case in January 2023. Despite multiple requests, First Baptist Church declined to comment on the situation. Shobe’s pre-trial conference is scheduled for Thursday, July 11 at 9 a.m.

In Bowling Green, Kentucky, a disturbing case has come to light involving former First Baptist Church employee Maranya Shobe. Shobe has pleaded not guilty to 10 counts of third-degree criminal abuse against a child 12 or under. This shocking revelation has sent shockwaves through the community.

Allegations of Abuse

The incident unfolded after an anonymous complaint was lodged against the church’s daycare in February. Concerned parents alleged that their child had been subjected to abuse while under the care of the establishment. Upon reviewing surveillance footage, District Court Judge Brent Potter and the County Attorney’s Office identified 10 incidents that appeared to be criminal in nature, involving seven different young victims.

Disturbing Details

The citation from Judge Potter outlined the disturbing incidents, revealing that Shobe was seen carrying children across the room by one arm, with their feet off the ground. This reckless behaviour put the children at risk of serious injuries to their arms, shoulders, or elbows. Additionally, there were multiple instances where Shobe appeared to intentionally walk on the children, striking them with her leg or abdominal area, causing them to fall to the ground.

Previous Incidents

This recent case is not an isolated one within the walls of First Baptist Church. In January of 2023, another employee was the subject of an investigation by the Cabinet for Health and Family Services. The investigation revealed that the employee had roughly handled a sleeping 23-month-old child, causing distress and discomfort. Despite the child’s cries, the employee did not offer any comfort, leading to their subsequent dismissal.

Church Response

In a phone call on Thursday morning, First Baptist Church confirmed that the Director of Child Ministries during the time of the incident is no longer employed with the church, following an administrative leave. Despite multiple requests for comment, the church has declined to provide an interview to address both situations. The silence from the church has left many in the community questioning their commitment to the safety and well-being of the children under their care.

Legal Proceedings

Shobe’s pre-trial conference is scheduled for Thursday, July 11 at 9 a.m. As the case unfolds, the community is left grappling with the disturbing reality of child abuse within a place that should be synonymous with safety and care. The outcome of this trial will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications for all parties involved.

The events that have transpired at First Baptist Church have raised serious concerns about the safeguarding of children in religious institutions. It is imperative that such incidents are thoroughly investigated and that measures are put in place to prevent any future occurrences. The community must come together to ensure that the safety and well-being of all children are prioritised above all else.