Ohio Pastor Who Called ‘Heartstopper’ a ‘Health Risk’ to Children Charged with Child Sexual Abuse

Silas Shelton, 48, a pastor at Blanchester Community Church in Clinton County, Ohio, was arrested last week on four felony charges—rape, sexual battery, unlawful sexual contact with a minor, and gross sexual imposition—according to the Wilmington Police Department . The charges stem from allegations involving a girl, who was 14 or 15 at the time and a member of Shelton’s congregation, with the incidents alleged to have occurred beginning in 2019 and continuing until a few months ago .

Authorities have stated that, due to the sensitive nature of the case and in consideration of the victim's privacy, further details will remain confidential at this time . Shelton has pleaded not guilty, according to court records, and is being held on a $2 million bond while awaiting a preliminary hearing scheduled for October 22 .

Shelton gained notoriety in August 2023 for speaking at a Little Miami Local School District board meeting in Ohio, where he condemned "Heartstopper", a graphic novel by Alice Oseman that centers on a queer teen romance and has been celebrated for its inclusive representation . During his remarks, Shelton described the book as a “health risk” and stated, “I got sick from reading that stuff,” further asserting, “I don’t think kids should ever question their sexuality. I don’t think kids should ever explore their sexuality. I don’t think any of that stuff ever ought to be in our school” . He also referenced his 12-year-old daughter’s exposure to the book at a school book fair, framing LGBTQ+ content as inappropriate for youth .

Oseman’s "Heartstopper" series, originally a webcomic launched in 2016, has been widely lauded for its positive portrayal of LGBTQ+ relationships and has been adapted into a successful Netflix series . The author recently announced the sixth and final volume’s release, underscoring the story’s ongoing cultural significance .

Wilmington police allege that Shelton’s abusive conduct began in the fall of 2019 and continued over several years, involving a teenage girl from his church . Investigation reports describe a complex dynamic, with the victim reportedly feeling groomed and manipulated, a dynamic further complicated by Shelton’s role as a religious authority . The alleged abuse is said to have occurred at multiple locations, including Shelton’s home, Cowan Lake in Clinton County, and local hotels .

Law enforcement has urged anyone with information to contact authorities, emphasizing ongoing efforts to ensure the safety of the congregation and broader community . Resources for victims of sexual violence, such as the National Sexual Assault Hotline, have been highlighted in public statements .

The charges against Shelton have reignited debate over the use of anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric as a tool to justify censorship and marginalization in schools and public spaces. Advocates note that such rhetoric often frames LGBTQ+ people and inclusive materials as threats to children, a narrative that has been widely debunked by mental health professionals and educational experts . The "Heartstopper" series, in particular, has been praised by LGBTQ+ advocates for helping young people feel seen and accepted, countering stigma and isolation .

Many LGBTQ+ organizations have called for greater scrutiny of those who use their platforms to incite fear and moral panic, especially when such figures wield significant authority over youth . The juxtaposition of Shelton’s public campaign against LGBTQ+ visibility and the grave charges he now faces has been cited as a stark reminder that sexual abuse is not linked to sexual orientation, but rather to abuses of power and trust .

Commentators note that this case echoes a broader pattern in which individuals who vocally oppose LGBTQ+ inclusion are sometimes implicated in the very types of harm they claim to oppose . LGBTQ+ advocates urge communities to focus on evidence-based policies that protect all children, promote open dialogue, and challenge unfounded stigmatization.

Shelton’s preliminary hearing is scheduled for October 22, and the investigation remains active . Authorities have not yet indicated whether additional victims may be involved or whether further charges could be forthcoming .

The case continues to draw national attention, serving as a flashpoint in ongoing conversations about LGBTQ+ representation in schools, the responsibilities of faith leaders, and the need for robust safeguarding policies to protect young people from abuse—regardless of the abuser’s public persona or stated beliefs .