We All Matter News 
Allegations of Abuse Rock South Carolina Foster System and Faith Community
A South Carolina pastor and his wife are facing serious criminal charges after foster children in their care reported alleged sexual and physical abuse, raising troubling questions about oversight, accountability, and the protection of vulnerable young people.
Rodney Gibson, 50, and his wife, Kawiana Young, also 50, were arrested following an investigation by the Richland County Sheriff’s Department. Both have been charged with unlawful conduct with a minor. Gibson faces 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.
Allegations From Foster Youth
According to investigators, a former foster child came forward last month to report years of alleged sexual abuse while placed in the couple’s home. Authorities say Gibson is accused of repeatedly assaulting the youth beginning at age 15 and continuing until the young person aged out of the foster care system.
During the course of the investigation, officials discovered another minor was living in the home. That child reportedly told investigators they had experienced sexual abuse by Gibson and physical abuse by Young. The child was immediately placed in emergency protective custody.
In a deeply concerning development, a family court judge initially ordered on March 20 that the minor be returned to the couple’s home during an emergency custody hearing. However, after investigators conducted further interviews and gathered additional evidence, arrest warrants were issued. Gibson and Young were taken into custody on April 1, and the child was once again removed and placed in emergency protective care.
The couple was released on bond on April 2.
Oversight and Accountability Under Scrutiny
The South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS) confirmed that Young had been a licensed foster parent from June 2021 until June 2025 and fostered six children during that time. The agency stated that Young voluntarily relinquished her foster parent license.
DSS also reported that Young failed to disclose that Gibson was living in the home. His name was not listed on the foster care license, and according to the agency, Young did not report that she was married or in a relationship. The department says it is cooperating fully with the ongoing criminal investigation.
This case underscores how gaps in the foster care system can leave children exposed to harm. Foster youth—many of whom have already experienced trauma—deserve environments that are safe, transparent, and subject to rigorous oversight. When safeguards fail, the consequences can be devastating.
Community Institutions and Public Trust
Gibson serves as a pastor at Pathway 2 Hope Ministries, while Young operates DreamCatcher Child Development Center. The allegations have shaken trust in institutions that are often seen as pillars of community support. Faith leaders and child care providers occupy positions of immense responsibility, particularly when working with children and families.
Children in foster care rely on adults, agencies, and community leaders to protect them—not exploit them. When that trust is broken, the entire system must answer.
Law enforcement officials believe there may be additional victims and are urging anyone with information to come forward.
For advocates of child welfare reform, the case highlights the urgent need for stronger monitoring of foster placements, more rigorous background checks, transparent reporting requirements, and a judicial process that centers the safety of children above all else. Foster youth are among the most vulnerable members of our society. Ensuring their protection is not optional—it is a moral responsibility.
As the investigation continues, community members and child welfare advocates alike are calling for accountability and systemic improvements to ensure that no child’s pleas for help are ignored.
