I recently posted on Joe Panaia, the Tea, South Dakota area pastor who wants to open a youth center despite being a sex offender with a long criminal history. A recent update further complicates this odd story. His most recent conviction was in 2007. I’m not even sure if he’s cleared probation yet.
Here is the arrest list:
- 1999 sexual misconduct
- 2001 indecent exposure
- 2004 welfare fraud
- 2004 Medicaid fraud
- 2007 forgery arrest
Panaia threw in the towel.
Hello from Pastor Joe: This is to let everyone know that Bridging the Gap Ministries will no longer will be opening a youth center. Ryan Shepherd will be trying to open the youth center on his own so I ask that you show him support. I will no longer have an office there or hold Sunday service there. I ask once again that you show Ryan your support, You can contact him at (605)498-8092. I still feel that a youth center is something that is needed in our community