Youth pastor under investigation after accusations

GREENFIELD, Ind. (WISH) - Youth pastor jailed for allegations he had sex with a 13-year-old girl.

According to court documents the victim, now 16, told officers about the alleged crime in April at the Greenfield Police department.

She gave a statement that three years ago, 60-year-old Steve Harding had sex with her at his home.

The victim told police a second incident happened inside the New Palestine United Methodist Church. She also told police the pastor grabbed her sexually.

Detectives brought Harding in for questioning and he denied the allegations. However, police say Harding failed three critical questions during a lie detector test.

An arrest warrant was issued for Harding and he was later arrested in Marion County.

Harding is currently charged with one count of child molestation, and count of sexual misconduct with a minor.

Senior Pastor of New Palestine United Methodist Church released  a statement  about the current investigation:

"We deeply regret any pain or embarrassment this event has caused to the complainant and family or to Steve and the Harding family."

Harding has been placed on administrative leave from the church pending an investigation.