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Pastor’s case goes to grand jury

LISBON — An East Palestine pastor accused of unlawful sexual conduct with a minor waived his right to a preliminary hearing on Thursday, sending the case to the county grand jury.

Rodney McManus, 49, Alice Street, is accused of having sexual physical contact with a teenage girl throughout a nearly three-year period while he served in his capacity as pastor of NewLife Outreach Church.

The church held local services at The Coffee Stop in East Palestine, as well as youth activities for teenagers. Both were owned and operated by McManus and his wife. The church and the business are now closed.

McManus’ attorney, Eric Kibler, asked that he be released from the county jail and go back home to live with his wife in East Palestine pending the grand jury’s decision, as long as he is to have no contact with the victim.

“My client is a longtime resident of Columbiana County. He has lived in Salem and moved back to East Palestine … He has led a blameless life outside of this charge,” Kibler said.

He went on to say he doesn’t believe McManus is a flight risk or a danger to himself or others.

McManus’ wife was present at the hearing but did not speak. The alleged victim was also at the courthouse to speak with attorneys, but did not speak.

Assistant County Prosecutor Alec Beech argued the word “attempted” in the court documents regarding the case was a mistake and that its removal would make the charge a third-degree felony.

Beech said he believed the language in the affidavit filed with the court was enough for the case.

Kibler said the grand jury would make the determination.

Judge Mark Frost ordered that the original $25,000 cash or surety bond be continued.

“This is obviously a troubling situation,” Frost said.

McManus was taken into custody on the charge last Tuesday.

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