He did this while serving as youth pastor at the church. He has been in federal custody since his arrest in August 2025 for attempted coercion and enticement of a minor. Barnett claimed he was 17 and sent the girl images of a young man, which he falsely claimed was him. Last year, Barnett was arrested while chaperoning a youth retreat in Brevard, N.C. His victims ranged in age from 12 to 17. Barnett was called to serve at Catawba Valley Baptist Church in April 2024 as associate pastor of students and mobilization.