KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT) – A Knoxville church leader has been removed from his leadership position after being charged with child abuse, according to court records and church officials.
Nicholas Blevins, 41, is facing one count of child abuse and is currently being held in the Loudon County Jail on a $50,000 bond.
Officials with Reformed Fellowship Church Knoxville confirmed to WVLT that Blevins served as an Elder, a leadership role that included responsibilities for guiding church members and children in worship activities.
In a statement, church leaders said they were unaware of the allegations prior to Blevins being charged and took immediate action upon learning of the situation.
“Reformed Fellowship Knoxville is shocked and saddened to hear of the reported child abuse from Nick Blevins,” the church said in a statement. “Upon hearing of allegations, Mr. Blevins was immediately removed from church leadership and is currently under the oversight of the other church leaders as they determine the church’s course of action.”
Church officials emphasized that they condemn all forms of child abuse and are cooperating with authorities during the investigation. The church also said it is directing those affected by the allegations to certified counseling resources and remains committed to supporting individuals impacted by the case.
The church further stated that no previous information or circumstances had been brought to its attention that would have revealed the reported allegations before the charge was filed.
The Tennessee Department of Children’s Services also confirmed it is involved in the matter.
“I can confirm that DCS is involved in an investigation related to this matter,” DCS spokeswoman Ashley Zarach said.
According to court records, Blevins was initially booked on Sept. 10 by the Knox County Sheriff’s Office on a child abuse charge. The incident report indicated the arrest involved criminal warrants originating from Loudon County.
Authorities have not publicly released additional details regarding the allegations. WVLT reported that requests have been made to the Lenoir City Police Department for copies of the warrants and information regarding upcoming court proceedings.
The investigation remains active.
As with all criminal cases, the charge is an allegation. Blevins is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
