Expert on Christian Ethics in Marriage and Sexuality Arrested in Ohio for Raping Child

A former university professor who authored books for Christians about the ethics of marriage and sexuality has been arrested for raping a child, Us Weekly has learned.

John Kent Tarwater was once a finance professor at Cedarville University, a Baptist school in Ohio.

Tarwater, 55, is facing eight sex-based felonies stemming from allegations made by the minor victim.

He was formally charged on March 27 with two counts of rape, three counts of sexual battery and three counts of gross sexual imposition.

He has no defense counsel identified in court records, and there are no hearings scheduled in his case.

Tarwater was a professor of finance at the Robert W. Plaster School of Business.

Tarwater published two books for Christian readers — 2005’s Marriage as Covenant: Considering God’s Design at Creation and the Contemporary Moral Consequences, and 2019’s Business Ethics: A Christian Method for Making Moral Decisions.

He is accused of raping a victim younger than 13 starting in 2019. He sexually assaulted the victim for six years, investigators alleged.

Authorities contend Tarwater compelled the victim to comply using force or threatening force.

Cedarville University sent an email to students and staffers last week, explaining, “We were informed in July 2025 that Dr. Tarwater was under investigation concerning allegations. Due to the nature of the investigation, he was immediately placed on administrative leave and restricted from coming on campus.”

Tarwater “was dismissed from his contract” in October.

“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,” the email added. “Our understanding is that these charges do not involve anyone Dr. Tarwater met or interacted with as a university professor. Even so, we desire to be transparent and ensure the safety of everyone on campus,” the message continued.

Police have asked anyone who may believe they may be a victim of Tarwater’s to come forward.

Cedarville’s email also urged anyone aware of “any inappropriate behavior from this former professor” to contact their Title IX office. “This is difficult news that is grievous to read, but we share it because the safety and well-being of our students will always be a guiding priority,” reads the email. “We encourage you to pray for healing for all affected by this situation.”

If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673).