Pastor in Virginia cleared of soliciting child prostitutes by judge

A judge in Virginia has thrown out charges against a pastor for allegedly encouraging child prostitution.

Pastor John Blanchard of Rock Church International had charges of soliciting sex with a minor dropped against him by the judge.

Chesterfield County, Virginia prosecutors reportedly told the judge this week that the case would be nolle pros, meaning the charges would be dropped but could be refiled at a later date if prosecutors felt they had enough evidence against the pastor. This was reported by CBN News.

Blanchard’s lawyer expressed satisfaction with the verdict.

Blanchard, 52, stepped down from his role at the church after his arrest in October 2021. He was one of 17 men accused of solicitation of prostitution after officers arrested them during an undercover operation.

Chesterfield County Police Special Victims Unit communicated with the suspects online and through social media platforms. The men ranged from ages 24 to 52.

After Blanchard was released, he took the stage at the church during a live stream to preach.

His wife, Robin Gimenez Blanchard, also posted about the arrest on Facebook. Her post has since been deleted.

“I think each of us has judged someone or something prematurely, and we have also probably experienced the pain of being judged that way. Lord, forgive us!” Blanchard said. “We have to trust each other and assume the best. Before we can rule anything out, we need to take a long and hard look at the situation. Why? Because God is always providing for us in this way.”

Later, the church issued a statement indicating Blanchard had willingly resigned as pastor.

A reminder that “as children of God, we must remember that redemption, salvation, grace, mercy, and healing are all gifts offered to us,” the church said. As Christians, “our job is not to condemn, but to be agents of God’s compassion, healing, justice, and reconciliation” (but each individual must face their own beliefs and consequences).

Since 2013, the Blanchards have served as the senior pastors of the church.