Christian Ethics Author Charged with Child Rape: University Professor Faces Eight Felonies
In a shocking case that has sent ripples through religious and academic circles, an expert who authored books on Christian ethics in marriage and sexuality has been arrested for raping a child. John Kent Tarwater, 55, a former finance professor at Cedarville University, a Baptist institution in Ohio, is facing eight sex-based felonies following allegations made by a minor victim.
Details of the Charges and Allegations
Tarwater was formally charged on March 27, 2026, with two counts of rape, three counts of sexual battery, and three counts of gross sexual imposition. Authorities allege that he began raping a victim younger than 13 in 2019 and sexually assaulted the victim for six years. Investigators contend that Tarwater compelled the victim to comply using force or threatening force, painting a grim picture of prolonged abuse.
Background of the Accused
Tarwater published two books aimed at Christian readers: Marriage as Covenant: Considering God’s Design at Creation and the Contemporary Moral Consequences in 2005, and Business Ethics: A Christian Method for Making Moral Decisions in 2019. These works positioned him as an authority on moral and ethical issues within the Christian community, making the allegations all the more jarring.
University Response and Actions
Cedarville University sent an email to students and staff last week, detailing their response to the situation. The university stated, “We were informed in July 2025 that Dr. Tarwater was under investigation concerning allegations. Due to the nature of the investigation, he was immediately placed on administrative leave and restricted from coming on campus.” Tarwater was dismissed from his contract in October 2025.
The email further added, “Today we were informed that Dr. Tarwater was indicted by a Greene County Grand Jury and arrested on eight felony counts, including rape, gross sexual imposition, and sexual battery. Our understanding is that these charges do not involve anyone Dr. Tarwater met or interacted with as a university professor. Even so, we desire to be transparent and ensure the safety of everyone on campus.”
Call for Additional Victims and Support
Police have urged anyone who believes they may be a victim of Tarwater to come forward. Cedarville’s email also encouraged individuals aware of any inappropriate behavior from this former professor to contact their Title IX office. The university emphasized, “This is difficult news that is grievous to read, but we share it because the safety and well-being of our students will always be a guiding priority. We encourage you to pray for healing for all affected by this situation.”
The case highlights a stark contrast between Tarwater’s public persona as an ethics expert and the grave accusations against him, raising questions about trust and accountability in religious and educational settings.
