WILLIAMSON COUNTY, Tenn. (WKRN) — A 50-year-old pastor has been arrested after he was indicted on six counts of sexual exploitation of a minor.

The Williamson County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) reported its investigation began after receiving a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) about an upload of child sex abuse material from a church’s internet connection.

Daryl Hayes was identified as the former lead pastor of Berrys Chapel Church of Christ. The church was fully cooperative and Hayes was terminated from his position immediately, according to the sheriff’s office.

According to the indictment, Hayes possessed material showing a minor engaged in sexual activity during three instances on Oct. 17, 2022 and again on Nov. 30, 2022 and twice on Dec. 9, 2022.

Detectives believe there are no local child victims nor any additional concerns for the public.

The Williamson County Sheriff’s Office said investigators executed a search warrant at the church and Hayes’ residence and neither the Hayes family nor the church were aware of Hayes’ activities.

If you have any questions or concerns related to this case, you are asked to contact Investigator Paul Lusk at Paul.Lusk@Williamsoncounty-tn.gov.

Law firm Buerger, Moseley & Carson, PLC released a statement from Berrys Chapel Church of Christ, which reads:

In December 2022, the Shepherds at Berrys Chapel Church of Christ were notified by the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office of its investigation into allegations against Daryl Hayes regarding receiving and/or distributing material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor. The Shepherds were not aware of the actions taken by Hayes prior to being notified of the investigation by the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office. Upon becoming aware of the investigation, the Shepherds immediately terminated Hayes’ employment with the Church. The Shepherds have cooperated fully in the investigation and will continue to cooperate with law enforcement as this matter moves forward.

While we are not aware of any harm to any families affiliated with Berrys Chapel Church of Christ, the Church condemns sexual immorality of any kind and especially holds its leaders to a high standard of accountability for their actions, especially those actions that may adversely affect children. We pray for all those who have been affected by this matter.