Dear Preston Trail families,
We want to address a painful and difficult situation with the honesty, humility, and pastoral care that it merits. It has come to our attention that Jim Mustain, who served on the Preston Trail Community Church staff from 2019-2023 as Community Pastor, is currently in custody in Denton, Texas facing charges related to child pornography. We are deeply saddened and disturbed by these charges and unequivocally condemn any form of sexual misconduct.
During Mustain’s time on our staff, Preston Trail had no knowledge of any behavior or activity related to these charges. Nevertheless, immediately upon learning of the allegations, we retained a third-party law firm to conduct a thorough, independent investigation. We are grateful to report that the investigation found no evidence of any illegal activity by him while employed at Preston Trail.
Like many of you, we are shocked and heartbroken by this news. We know it raises serious questions and concerns, and we are committed to responding with transparency and integrity.
How and when did we learn of the charges?
Our executive team was made aware of impending charges by local law enforcement on April 24, 2025. We immediately engaged an independent firm to proactively initiate an internal investigation.
Were any children in our church harmed?
There is currently no indication that any children connected to Preston Trail were involved or harmed. Mustain’s role during his time on staff did not include direct responsibilities related to children’s or student ministries.
What safeguards are in place to protect kids and students?
Preston Trail has longstanding safety protocols to protect those in our care. These include:
We take our role as mandatory reporters extremely seriously and are committed to maintaining a safe and trusted space for your family.
What support is available to Preston Trail families?
We understand this news may bring up pain, questions, or past trauma. We have a trusted pastoral care team and support groups available for anyone who needs care. Please don’t hesitate to reach out—we are here to walk with you.
We want to be a church where hard things can be faced in the light—not ignored or hidden. We are saddened alongside you. We are praying for justice, healing, and truth. And we remain committed to creating a safe, Christ-centered environment where trust can be built and restored.
If you have concerns or information that should be brought to our attention, please contact our leadership team directly at executives@prestontrail.org.
Prayerfully,
Jim Johnson & Paul Basden
Senior Pastors
We want to address a painful and difficult situation with the honesty, humility, and pastoral care that it merits. It has come to our attention that Jim Mustain, who served on the Preston Trail Community Church staff from 2019-2023 as Community Pastor, is currently in custody in Denton, Texas facing charges related to child pornography. We are deeply saddened and disturbed by these charges and unequivocally condemn any form of sexual misconduct.
During Mustain’s time on our staff, Preston Trail had no knowledge of any behavior or activity related to these charges. Nevertheless, immediately upon learning of the allegations, we retained a third-party law firm to conduct a thorough, independent investigation. We are grateful to report that the investigation found no evidence of any illegal activity by him while employed at Preston Trail.
Like many of you, we are shocked and heartbroken by this news. We know it raises serious questions and concerns, and we are committed to responding with transparency and integrity.
How and when did we learn of the charges?
Our executive team was made aware of impending charges by local law enforcement on April 24, 2025. We immediately engaged an independent firm to proactively initiate an internal investigation.
Were any children in our church harmed?
There is currently no indication that any children connected to Preston Trail were involved or harmed. Mustain’s role during his time on staff did not include direct responsibilities related to children’s or student ministries.
What safeguards are in place to protect kids and students?
Preston Trail has longstanding safety protocols to protect those in our care. These include:
- Regular and mandatory background checks for all staff and Next Gen volunteers
- Mandatory child abuse awareness training
- A strict no one-on-one adult/child policy
- Partnership with Red Flag Reporting service
- Ongoing accountability and supervision of all ministry environments
We take our role as mandatory reporters extremely seriously and are committed to maintaining a safe and trusted space for your family.
What support is available to Preston Trail families?
We understand this news may bring up pain, questions, or past trauma. We have a trusted pastoral care team and support groups available for anyone who needs care. Please don’t hesitate to reach out—we are here to walk with you.
We want to be a church where hard things can be faced in the light—not ignored or hidden. We are saddened alongside you. We are praying for justice, healing, and truth. And we remain committed to creating a safe, Christ-centered environment where trust can be built and restored.
If you have concerns or information that should be brought to our attention, please contact our leadership team directly at executives@prestontrail.org.
Prayerfully,
Jim Johnson & Paul Basden
Senior Pastors
To confidentially and anonymously report misconduct, theft, or ethical concerns, individuals can contact Red Flag Reporting using client code PTFAM at www.RedFlagReporting.com or call 1-877-647-3335.