Rodney Gibson, a pastor in South Carolina, has been arrested for allegedly sexually assaulting a foster child in his care. His wife, Kawiana Young, is also facing charges related to the case.
The couple, both 50 years old, taken into custody on April 1. They’re charged with unlawful conduct with a minor, while Gibson faces additional charges. Including criminal sexual conduct, criminal sexual conduct with a minor, and contributing to the delinquency of a minor.
The investigation began in March after a victim reported enduring sexual abuse in the couple’s home. According to the Richland County Sheriff’s Department. The abuse started when the victim was 15 and continued until they aged out of the foster care system.
The South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS) revealed that Young licensed as a foster parent from June 2021 to June 2025. However, she voluntarily gave up her license. DSS also noted that there was no record of Gibson living in the home, and he not licensed as a foster parent. Additionally, Young reportedly told the agency she not married and not in a relationship.
During the investigation, authorities discovered another child living in the home. This foster child had adopted by Young through the foster care system in 2024. Young is accused of physically abusing this child. Who was briefly placed in protective custody in March but returned to the home just days later. After Gibson and Young’s arrests, the child again placed in protective custody. DSS has stated it will continue cooperating with the investigation.
Both Gibson and Young have released on bond. According to WIS, Gibson is a pastor at Pathway 2 Hope Ministries in Columbia, while Young owns and operates DreamCatcher Child Development Center in the same city.
