Johnston minister faces child sex charges

A Johnston County minister has been charged with sex crimes involving a child, authorities said.

Rev. Stephen Arthur Morris, 61, of 1353 Parkertown Road in Four Oaks, was charged with five counts each of statutory rape or sex offense and indecent liberties with a child. He remains in the Johnston County jail under $2.5 million bond.

Morris is the pastor at Oliver’s Grove Baptist Church in Four Oaks, authorities said.

Authorities said a 19-year-old girl told investigators last month that Morris molested her when she was 13. Authorities didn't disclose whether any of the alleged sex acts occurred at the church or through its programs or ministries.