Former Cedarville University Professor Indicted in Child Sexual Abuse Case Involving Minors

A former professor at Cedarville University, John Kent Tarwater, 55, faces serious criminal charges that have cast a shadow over his academic career and personal life. Indicted in Greene County, Ohio, on Friday, Tarwater is accused of two counts of rape, three counts of sexual battery, and three counts of gross sexual imposition. The allegations, detailed in an indictment reviewed by the Daily Mail, suggest a years-long pattern of abuse involving minors. One victim, identified as being under 13 during part of the alleged abuse period, was reportedly known to Tarwater and as young as 10 when the misconduct began. The charges stem from incidents occurring between August 2019 and July 2023, with some acts allegedly taking place at a Cedarville address on US Route 42 East.

Tarwater's academic background adds a layer of complexity to the case. He joined Cedarville University in 2017 as a business administration faculty member and associate finance professor. The university, a Baptist institution with approximately 6,400 students, previously highlighted Tarwater in promotional materials, showcasing him as an example of the city's integration of academic and town culture. A 2022 press release from Cedarville celebrated the city's ranking as Ohio's 'Most Collegiest College Town,' noting that professors like Tarwater exemplified the university's community ties. The university confirmed his dismissal in October 2023, though it did not specify the reason at the time.

Tarwater's professional writings, which often intersected with themes of morality and ethics, have drawn renewed scrutiny. In December 2022, he authored an article titled 'Does Sexual Self–Gratification Glorify God?' which was later removed from online archives but remains accessible through digital preservation. The piece addressed the moral permissibility of masturbation, a topic he framed within Christian ethical discourse. Earlier, in 2021, he co–authored a paper exploring 'Business Ethics in the Marketplace: Exploring Transgenderism,' further illustrating his engagement with contemporary moral and social issues. His 2005 book, 'Marriage as Covenant: Considering God's Design at Creation and the Contemporary Moral Consequences,' also delved into religious perspectives on marriage, framing it as a response to challenges from feminist and LGBTQ+ movements.

The legal proceedings against Tarwater have sparked questions about accountability and institutional oversight. During his arraignment on Thursday, Tarwater appeared via video call from Greene County Jail, where he remained in custody as of Friday night. His attorney, Jay A. Adams, entered a not guilty plea on his behalf, emphasizing Tarwater's lack of criminal history and arguing that the $1 million bond requested by prosecutors was disproportionate to the charges. 'There is no dead body in this case,' Adams told the court, highlighting the absence of homicide-related allegations. The defense has described the accusations as 'delayed allegations,' though no evidence has been presented to substantiate this claim.

The university's response has been cautious but definitive. In an email to the campus community on Tuesday, John W. Davis, Cedarville's associate vice president for human resources, announced Tarwater's indictment and arrest without elaborating further. The institution's public relations department, led by Mark D. Weinstein, had previously acknowledged Tarwater's family life, noting that he had '10 children, not 11,' as stated in a prior press release. This detail, while seemingly minor, underscores the personal and professional dimensions of the case, raising questions about how institutions balance public image with private conduct.

The allegations against Tarwater have broader implications for communities where academic figures hold influential roles. His position at Cedarville University—a school that prides itself on its religious identity—adds a moral and ethical dimension to the case. The juxtaposition of his teachings on Christian sexual ethics with the serious criminal charges has prompted discussions about the responsibilities of educators and the potential risks to vulnerable populations. As the legal process unfolds, the case serves as a stark reminder of the need for rigorous oversight in institutions where trust and authority intersect.

Cedarville University's handling of Tarwater's tenure and subsequent dismissal remains under scrutiny. While the university has not publicly commented on the nature of his dismissal, the timing—just months after the indictment—suggests a potential link. The institution's failure to address the allegations earlier, despite Tarwater's prominent role in both academic and community affairs, has raised concerns about transparency and accountability. For the victims involved, the case represents a call for justice, while for the broader community, it highlights the importance of vigilance in safeguarding institutions from individuals who may exploit their positions.

As the trial approaches, the focus will likely shift to the evidence presented by prosecutors and the defense's ability to challenge the allegations. The outcome could have lasting effects on Cedarville University's reputation and its commitment to ethical standards. For now, the charges against Tarwater remain a grim reminder of the complexities that arise when personal conduct clashes with professional responsibilities.

Today we were informed that Dr. Tarwater was indicted by a Greene County Grand Jury and arrested on eight felony counts, including rape, gross sexual imposition, and sexual battery," wrote Davis in an email to the university community. The letter marked the first public acknowledgment of the legal proceedings against the professor, who had been at the center of a prolonged investigation. "We were informed in July 2025 that Dr. Tarwater was under investigation for concerning allegations," Davis added, confirming that the university learned of the inquiry months before the charges were formally filed.

Due to the sensitivity of the case, the university acted swiftly. "He was immediately placed on administrative leave and restricted from coming on campus," Davis stated, emphasizing the institution's commitment to maintaining a secure environment. The email also revealed that Tarwater had been "dismissed from his contract" in October, though the timeline of events remains unclear. It is not yet known whether this dismissal preceded or followed the formal indictment.

The university made it clear that the charges do not appear to involve students, colleagues, or any individuals directly connected to Tarwater's work as a professor. "Our understanding is that these charges do not involve anyone Dr. Tarwater met or interacted with as a University professor," Davis wrote. Despite this, the institution reiterated its dedication to transparency and safety. "Even so, we desire to be transparent and ensure the safety of everyone on campus," the email concluded, signaling a broader effort to address concerns that may extend beyond the immediate case.

The Daily Mail has reached out to Tarwater's attorney, Jay A. Adams, Greene County prosecutor David Hayes, and Cedarville University for further comment. As of now, no representatives from these entities have responded to requests for clarification or additional details about the investigation. The case continues to draw attention, with questions lingering about how the university will navigate the fallout and what steps will be taken to support those affected by the allegations.