A former DeSoto County youth minister and high school basketball coach has been indicted on charges of sexual battery of a child, officials confirmed. Lindsey Aldy Whiteside, 26, has been accused of a sexual relationship with a minor under her guardianship between May 14 and November 6, 2024. According to Action News 5, the indictment was returned by a grand jury earlier this month.
Prior to the charges, Whiteside worked at Getwell Church Hernando as a student and outreach coordinator, and was an assistant basketball coach at DeSoto Central High School. “We can confirm that the December Grand Jury of DeSoto County, has indicted Lindsey Whiteside on the charge of sexual battery of a minor child by a person of trust or authority,” DeSoto County District Attorney Matthew Barton said in a statement obtained by WREG News Channel 3. After the allegations came to light, Whiteside was reportedly terminated from Getwell Church.
Whiteside could face up to 30 years in prison if convicted. Getwell Church did not respond to requests for comments on the matter. Meanwhile, District Attorney Barton highlighted the serious effects of sexual abuse, "Sexual abuse and exploitation inflict lasting harm on victims, that often last for a lifetime," a sentiment he shared in statements to both Action News 5 and WREG News Channel 3.
The case has raised concerns about the relationship of trust between youth authorities and children. "Prior to this indictment, Lindsey Whiteside served as a youth ministry leader and basketball coach — positions that carry a profound responsibility to protect and guide others," Barton said, urging any other possible victims or those with information to contact the authorities, according to an indictment reported by the Daily Memphian. The district attorney's office is actively encouraging victims and witnesses to come forward in support of the case.
