2 Philadelphia pastors charged with child sexual abuse and pornography offenses

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Two pastors serving separate congregations in Philadelphia are facing charges related to child sexual abuse and child pornography, according to prosecutors.

Isaiah Banks, 30, and Bryan Jackson, 42, are both faith leaders who authorities say sexually abused children over several years.

"They represent a violation of trust within spaces that are meant to be safe, sacred, and protected," said LaQuisha Anthony, Executive Director of the Philadelphia Center Against Sexual Violence (WOAR).

According to an affidavit, Banks is accused of enticing a 15-year-old boy to send pornographic pictures and videos in exchange for money and food.

The alleged abuse occurred while Banks served as a pastor at Second Pilgrim Baptist Church on North 15th Street.

Prosecutors say Banks shared the child pornography with Jackson, who leads Garden of Prayer World Prayer Center on North 29th Street.

"Who also directly communicated with these children for the purpose of getting more videos and photos of that type," said Assistant District Attorney Helena von Nagy of the District Attorney's Family Violence and Sexual Assault Unit.

Charging documents indicate that text messages between Banks and Jackson date back to 2024, and investigators believe multiple victims may be depicted.

Both men were arrested earlier this month.

Jackson was taken into custody June 19. A video posted to his Instagram account on June 16 shows him preaching at his church, and he remains featured on signage outside the building.

Banks resigned from Second Pilgrim Baptist Church in April, where he had served as a pastor since 2017, according to the church.

In a statement, the church said, in part: "We are deeply shocked and saddened by these developments as the safety and well-being of our congregation and the broader community are our highest priority."

Banks was arrested on June 3.

Prosecutors are asking any potential victims to come forward.

"In some instance may have had access to vulnerable victims from that position of trust," said Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner.

Banks's bail was set at $600,000 and Jackson's was set at $100,0000 thousand.

Both have posted bail and are awaiting preliminary hearings, authorities said.