Nationwide — Rodney Gibson, a pastor from Columbia, South Carolina, and his wife, Kawiana Young, were arrested after authorities accused Gibson of sexually abusing a foster child in their home. Investigators also uncovered allegations involving another minor, and officials say the case may involve more victims.
Richland County deputies charged both Gibson and Young, both 50 years old, with unlawful conduct with a minor. Gibson also faces several additional charges, including first-degree criminal sexual conduct, second-degree criminal sexual conduct with a minor, unlawful conduct toward a minor, and contributing to the delinquency of a minor.
According to WLBT, authorities said the investigation started on March 12 after a victim reported sexual abuse that allegedly happened while living in foster care at the couple’s home. The victim told investigators the abuse began when they were 15 and continued through multiple incidents until they left the foster care system.
During the investigation, officers identified another minor living in the home. That child also reported abuse, saying Gibson sexually abused them and Young physically abused them. Officials placed the minor in emergency protective custody on March 18 while they investigated the claims.
A family court later returned that child to Gibson and Young during a hearing on March 20. After further interviews and additional evidence, investigators secured arrest warrants for both suspects. Deputies arrested Gibson and Young on April 1, and the child was again placed in emergency protective custody.
The South Carolina Department of Social Services said Young held a foster care license from June 2021 to June 2025 and cared for six children during that period. She later gave up her foster license voluntarily. The agency also said Gibson was not listed on the license and was not reported as living in the home.
Gibson serves as a pastor at Pathway 2 Hope Ministries in Columbia. Young works in the childcare sector in the same area. A community member described the situation as shocking, saying people often do not truly know what others are capable of until allegations surface.
Both Gibson and Young were released on bond on April 2. Gibson’s bond was set at $75,000, while Young’s was set at $10,000. Authorities said the investigation is still active and believe there may be additional victims. They are encouraging anyone with information to contact investigators or submit an anonymous tip.