A North Texas church is grappling with the aftermath of a shocking revelation involving a former pastor arrested on serious charges. Preston Trail Community Church, located in Frisco, Texas, has publicly responded to the arrest of Jim Mustain, who served as a community pastor from 2019 to 2023. Mustain was taken into custody on May 14, facing accusations of possessing child pornography and promoting lewd visual material involving minors, according to Denton County jail records.
In a heartfelt statement, Senior Pastors Jim Johnson and Paul Basden expressed their sorrow over the situation, stating, “We are deeply saddened and disturbed by these charges and unequivocally condemn any form of sexual misconduct.” The church leaders emphasized that during Mustain’s tenure, they had no knowledge of any misconduct. However, upon learning of the allegations on April 24, they promptly engaged a third-party law firm to conduct a thorough investigation. Fortunately, the inquiry revealed no evidence of illegal activity during Mustain’s time at Preston Trail.
The pastors reassured their congregation that there is currently no indication that any children connected to the church were harmed. They clarified that Mustain’s role did not involve direct responsibilities related to children’s or student ministries. “Nevertheless, we take these matters very seriously and are committed to ensuring a safe environment for all,” they added.
In response to this unsettling situation, Preston Trail is taking proactive measures to protect its community. The church has implemented mandatory background checks for all staff and volunteers involved in their “Next Gen” ministry. They have also established a strict policy prohibiting one-on-one adult-child interactions to enhance safety. Furthermore, Preston Trail has partnered with Red Flag Reporting, a reputable ethics and safety case management service, to bolster their commitment to child protection.
Mustain, who is 64 years old, was also known for his volunteer work with Lewisville Independent School District and his involvement with the Lewisville Chamber of Commerce. He founded Loving Community, a nonprofit dedicated to serving the needs of the local community, which aligns with the Great Commandment of Jesus to love one’s neighbor.
In a bid to support those affected by this news, Preston Trail is offering pastoral care and support groups for individuals grappling with pain, questions, or past trauma. “We want to be a church where hard things can be faced in the light, not ignored or hidden. We are saddened alongside you,” Johnson and Basden stated, affirming their commitment to justice, healing, and truth.
The church’s response highlights its dedication to transparency and accountability in the face of adversity. Preston Trail holds a strong belief in the gifts of both men and women in ministry, as noted on their website. They affirm that individuals, regardless of sexual orientation, can serve in leadership roles as long as they adhere to the church’s values and commitments.
As the community processes these developments, Preston Trail Community Church is steadfast in its mission to foster a safe, Christ-centered environment where trust can flourish. The commitment to protecting the well-being of children and families remains at the forefront of their efforts, ensuring that the church continues to be a place of hope and healing for all.
For more information on Preston Trail Community Church and their initiatives, you can visit their official website here.