Former RI Priest Facing Child Porn Charges Arrested In Kansas

OVERLAND PARK, KS — A former Rhode Island priest who faces federal child pornography charges was arrested in the Kansas City area last week.

Rev. James W. Jackson was arrested on Friday, and will be returned to Rhode Island after the arrest violated the conditions of his release, court documents show. It's not clear at this time what led to the arrest.

He'll face a preliminary or detention hearing upon his return, the documents say.

Jackson was charged in October 2021 after State Police said they searched his home and found digital media containing child pornography, according to an Associated Press report.

Providence Diocese Bishop Thomas Tobin told the Catholic News Agency the diocese prohibited Jackson from all ministry duties.

"The use of child pornography is a serious crime and a grave sin," Tobin told the Catholic News Agency, also saying the charges are disturbing and need to be taken seriously. "At the same time, I renew my pastoral concern and offer my fervent prayers for the good people of St. Mary Parish during this difficult time."

Read more: RI Pastor Facing Child Pornography Charges

According to WPRI, Jackson was granted permission to live with family in Kansas while he was awaiting trial on the child pornography charges.

At the time, the prosecution asked that Jackson be detained, stating that he was a flight risk and a potential danger to the community. A judge granted his request for home detention with GPS monitoring regardless.