The small community of Greenville, South Carolina, has been rocked by a disturbing case involving Pastor Myron Chorbajian and his wife, Kathleen Chorbajian, who are facing serious charges related to a decades-long child sex abuse investigation.
The couple, linked to the First Southern Methodist Church in Greenville, was apprehended in Nashville, Tennessee, on May 15, 2025, following an investigation initiated by the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office.
The allegations involve heinous acts of abuse against their adopted and biological children, spanning back to the 1980s. This case has raised significant concerns about the safety of vulnerable children in familial and religious settings, the mechanisms of accountability within communities, and the long-term impact of such abuse on victims.
The Investigation and Arrest
The investigation into Myron and Kathleen Chorbajian began in April 2025, when one of the victims courageously came forward to report extensive abuse that allegedly took place in the family’s home. The Greenville County Sheriff’s Office Specialized Investigations Division took swift action, uncovering a pattern of abuse that reportedly began in the 1980s and involved the couple’s seven adopted children and one biological daughter.
The allegations paint a grim picture of a household where children were subjected to physical and sexual abuse over an extended period. The Chorbajians were located in Nashville, Tennessee, on May 15, 2025, near the Grand Ole Opry on Opry Mills Drive, close to a Dave & Buster’s.
The Metropolitan Nashville Police Department assisted in their apprehension, and the couple was subsequently extradited to Greenville to face their charges. The fact that the couple was found in another state raises questions about whether they were attempting to evade authorities, though no official statement has confirmed this.
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The arrest marks a significant step in holding the Chorbajians accountable for the alleged crimes, but it also underscores the challenges of investigating cases where abuse spans decades and involves multiple victims.
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The courage of the victim who came forward cannot be overstated. Reporting abuse, especially within a family led by a figure of authority like a pastor, requires immense bravery. This individual’s decision to contact law enforcement has opened the door for justice and may encourage other survivors to share their stories. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are likely working to gather additional evidence and testimonies to build a comprehensive case against the Chorbajians.
The Charges and Allegations
Myron and Kathleen Chorbajian face a litany of serious charges related to the abuse of their children. According to the Greenville County Detention Center, Myron Chorbajian is charged with:
- Three counts of criminal sexual conduct with a minor between the ages of 11 and 14
- Three counts of incest
- One count of criminal sexual conduct, second degree
- Fourteen counts of unlawful placing child at risk
- Two counts of assault and battery, second degree
Kathleen Chorbajian faces:
- Fourteen counts of unlawful placing child at risk
- Two counts of accessory after the fact of felony
These charges reflect the severity and breadth of the alleged abuse. Preliminary findings from the investigation indicate that all male children in the household were subjected to physical abuse, while all female children suffered sexual abuse. The allegations span decades, suggesting a prolonged pattern of behavior that went undetected or unreported for years.
Tragically, two of the victims have since passed away, though authorities have not disclosed their causes of death. This adds a layer of complexity to the case, as investigators may face challenges in pursuing justice for those who are no longer able to testify.
The charges against Myron Chorbajian, particularly those related to criminal sexual conduct and incest, are among the most serious in the legal system. They suggest a profound betrayal of trust, not only as a parent but also as a religious leader who was expected to uphold moral and ethical standards.
Kathleen Chorbajian’s charges, while not directly tied to sexual abuse, indicate that she may have been complicit in allowing the abuse to occur or failing to intervene. The “accessory after the fact” charges suggest that she may have taken actions to conceal or support her husband’s alleged crimes.
Both Myron and Kathleen Chorbajian have been denied bond and remain in custody at the Greenville County Detention Center. This decision reflects the gravity of the charges and the potential risk they pose to the community. As the case progresses, the court will likely examine evidence such as victim testimonies, medical records, and any corroborating accounts from others who may have interacted with the family over the years.
Community Impact and Broader Questions
The allegations against Myron and Kathleen Chorbajian have sent shockwaves through the Greenville community, particularly among members of the First Southern Methodist Church, where Myron served as pastor.
Religious institutions often serve as pillars of trust and moral guidance, and the revelation that a pastor may have committed such egregious acts can shatter congregants’ faith in leadership and the institution itself. Church members may be grappling with feelings of betrayal, anger, and confusion as they process the news.
This case also raises broader questions about the mechanisms in place to protect children in familial and religious settings. How could such abuse allegedly persist for decades without intervention? Were there signs that went unnoticed or unreported by those in the Chorbajians’ circle, including church members or community leaders?
The fact that the family included seven adopted children highlights the vulnerabilities of children in foster or adoptive care, who may lack the support systems to report abuse. It also underscores the importance of rigorous oversight in adoption processes and ongoing monitoring to ensure the safety of children in their new homes.
The long-term impact on the victims cannot be overstated. Survivors of childhood abuse often face lifelong challenges, including mental health struggles, difficulty forming trusting relationships, and physical health issues stemming from trauma.
The fact that two victims have passed away adds a tragic dimension to the case, as their voices can no longer be heard directly. However, the surviving victims’ willingness to come forward demonstrates resilience and a desire for justice, which may inspire others to seek help and accountability.
This case also prompts a broader societal reflection on the role of authority figures, particularly in religious contexts. Pastors and other religious leaders are often placed on a pedestal, which can create an environment where abuse is less likely to be questioned or reported. Communities must foster cultures of transparency and accountability, where individuals feel safe to speak out against wrongdoing, regardless of the perpetrator’s status.
Moving forward, the Greenville community and the First Southern Methodist Church will need to address the fallout from this case. This may involve providing support for affected congregants, reevaluating leadership structures, and implementing safeguards to prevent future abuses.
On a larger scale, this case serves as a reminder of the importance of listening to survivors, supporting their pursuit of justice, and working to create systems that prioritize the safety and well-being of children. The charges against Myron and Kathleen Chorbajian represent a deeply troubling case that has far-reaching implications for their family, their church, and the broader Greenville community.
The investigation and arrest highlight the importance of swift action by law enforcement and the courage of survivors who come forward. The charges themselves reveal a pattern of alleged abuse that is both shocking and heartbreaking, particularly given the couple’s roles as parents and religious leaders.
As the case unfolds, it will likely prompt difficult but necessary conversations about accountability, child protection, and the responsibilities of those in positions of trust. For now, the focus remains on ensuring justice for the victims and supporting the community as it navigates this challenging chapter.