San Antonio Minister Charged with Child Sexual Abuse

Ryan Peña, 50, arrested after multiple reports of abuse over several years

Apr. 8, 2026 at 10:24am

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A San Antonio minister named Ryan Peña, 50, has been arrested and charged with continuous sexual abuse of a child under 14 years old. Police say they interviewed several individuals who reported that Peña sexually abused them as minors over an extended period of time.

Why it matters

This case highlights the serious issue of child sexual abuse within religious institutions and the need for thorough investigations and accountability. It also raises concerns about the potential for predators to exploit positions of trust and authority to target vulnerable children.

The details

According to the arrest warrant affidavit, a 31-year-old woman reported that Peña sexually abused her multiple times over several years until she was 17 years old. Police also spoke with another woman who said Peña, a relative of hers, sexually abused her when she was 12 years old. Both women said they did not report the incidents to law enforcement at the time because they were trying to move on from what happened.

  • Peña was arrested on Friday, April 5, 2026.
  • Peña was released from jail on Monday, April 7, 2026 after posting bond.

The players

Ryan Peña

A 50-year-old San Antonio minister who has been charged with continuous sexual abuse of a child under 14 years old.

Church of Acts

The church where Peña serves as a senior leader and where the alleged abuse took place.

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What’s next

The judge will decide on Tuesday whether to allow Peña to remain out on bail while the case proceeds.

The takeaway

This case underscores the need for greater transparency and accountability within religious institutions when it comes to protecting children from sexual abuse. It also highlights the challenges victims often face in coming forward, and the importance of creating safe environments where they feel empowered to report abuse.