Who Is Pastor Jeffrey Johnson Sr. and Why Was He Arrested? Son Addresses Allegations

Pastor Jeffrey Johnson Sr., a well-known religious leader from Indianapolis, was arrested on Saturday, October 11, on a misdemeanor domestic battery charge. According to official records, he was taken into custody at Hamilton County Jail and is currently held without bail. A court date at the Hamilton County Magistrate Court has not yet been announced.

Background of Pastor Jeffrey Johnson Sr.

Pastor Johnson is a respected figure in the Christian community. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Religion from Bishop College in Dallas, Texas, and later attended the Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis.

He became the pastor of Eastern Star Church on April 7, 1988, at just 17 years old. Under his leadership, the church grew to over 17,000 members, making it one of the largest churches in Indianapolis.

Over the years, Johnson received multiple honorary doctorates and community awards, including the ‘Best Pulpiteer’ award from Black Christian News Network in 2012. He is also the author of several books such as:

• Life Illustrated: Daily Thoughts For Your Daily Walk

• Dialogue with My Sons

• Dialogue with My Daughters

• Song of Solomon

• The Making of a King

He is married to Lady Sharon A., and together they have four sons.

Son’s Statement on the Arrest

On Sunday, Pastor Johnson’s son, Jeffrey A. Johnson Jr. (Pastor Jay), spoke to the congregation to clarify the situation. He explained that the incident involved his brother, Jalen, who has been facing emotional and mental health challenges.

Pastor Jay said: “My brother became verbally aggressive toward my mother. As any loving husband and father would, my dad stepped in to protect her and calm things down.”

He further revealed that Pastor Johnson himself called the Fishers Police Department to seek help. However, instead of assisting, officers arrested Pastor Johnson.

Pastor Jay firmly stated: “At no time did my father harm my mother or my brother.”

He emphasized that Pastor Johnson only tried to protect his family and secure help for Jalen. He requested the church community to focus on prayers and mental health awareness, while also respecting the family’s privacy.

The congregation responded with applause, showing continued support for Pastor Johnson and his decades of service.

Community Reaction

Despite the arrest, many church members continue to stand by Pastor Johnson. They believe his long years of leadership and service should not be overshadowed by what appears to be a family crisis involving mental health.