Christopher Walter remains in custody after a judge revoked his bond in Deshler, court records show. The decision keeps the former local pastor behind bars while he faces felony sex charges. He is in jail.
A Henry County grand jury indicted the 52-year-old on June 24. The indictment charges him with two counts of sexual battery and one count of grooming. Walter pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The alleged crimes occurred between Jan. 1 and June 2 of this year, court records state. The victim is a 15-year-old girl. His bail was officially revoked on Oct. 26.
Court records show Walter allegedly communicated with the victim through a mobile phone app. He is currently held at the Corrections Center of Northwest Ohio. That jail is known as CCNO.
Administrators confirmed Walter worked as a bus driver for Patrick Henry Local Schools. The school board has since accepted his resignation. The district issued an earlier statement saying it will not comment further.
The website for Immanuel Lutheran Church in Deshler listed Walter as its lead pastor. Bishop Daniel Beaudoin released a statement at the time of the arrest. The church fired Walter.
Beaudoin called the allegations very distressing and serious.
“The abuse of anyone, especially minors, has no place in our church,” the statement said. “We will continue to pray for those harmed, the congregation, and all involved as we navigate this troubling situation.”
Bond revocation hearings occur when prosecutors present evidence that a defendant violated pretrial release conditions. Judges can cancel bond to prevent contact with victims or witnesses.
Walter remains held without bail in custody pending his next scheduled court appearance.
