A Shocking Report Ignites Investigation (Image Credits: Unsplash)
Columbia, South Carolina – Authorities in Richland County arrested a local pastor and his wife earlier this month following allegations of severe abuse against children in their foster care. The couple, who held positions of trust in their community, now confront multiple felony charges after a former foster child came forward with claims of prolonged sexual assault.[1][2] The case has stunned residents, raising questions about oversight in foster homes and childcare facilities.
A Shocking Report Ignites Investigation
On March 12, 2026, a woman reported to deputies that she endured repeated sexual assaults by Rodney Gibson while living as a foster child in his home. The abuse allegedly began when she was 15 years old and continued until she aged out of the foster system at 18.[1] Investigators quickly uncovered additional concerns involving a minor child still residing with the couple.
Richland County Sheriff’s Department deputies learned of physical abuse allegations against Kawiana Young directed at this minor. The child entered emergency protective custody on March 18, though a family court judge returned the child home just two days later on March 20.[3] Further interviews and evidence collection prompted arrest warrants.
Detailed Charges Against the Couple
Deputies arrested Gibson and Young on April 1, 2026, with help from the RCSD Fugitive Task Force. Both individuals faced charges of unlawful conduct toward a minor. Gibson additionally received accusations of first-degree criminal sexual conduct, second-degree criminal sexual conduct with a minor, and contributing to the delinquency of a minor.[1]…