Central Florida Pornography Investigation Results In Arrest Of Former Missionary

December 28, 2008 7:32 a.m. EST

Ayinde O. Chase - AHN Editor

Deltona, Fl (AHN) - A central Florida child-pornography investigation has resulted in an a former missionary being indicted. Investigators say the man had more than 6,000 pictures and 250 video clips on his computer of children engaging in sexual activity.

An eight-month investigation by law enforcement resulted in the arrest last week of 36-year-old Joel Price of Deltona. Price has subsequently resigned from his job at an Orlando area New Tribes Mission.

"Investigators believe Price downloaded all of the images from the Internet and did not have sexual contact with any children or take any of the pictures," according to spokesman Gary Davidson. Authorities uncovered Price downloaded pornographic images but did not take the pictures or have sexual contact with any of the children seen on his computer. A spokeswoman for New Tribes Mission said Price resigned from his position as a youth pastor earlier this year, possibly because of the investigation.

This recent incident marks the second time in two years someone associated with New Tribes, whose missionary work reaches tribal communities, has been in legal trouble.

In December 2006, George Allen Goolde -- a foster parent and full-time mission employee -- was arrested and charged with molesting four children in his care. Goolde was convicted and is now serving a 50-year prison sentence.