NASHUA — Two days after Nashua Baptist Church fired him based on “credible allegations” of child sexual abuse, Jarrett Booker took his own life, “refusing to face the consequences of his actions,” according to a statement by church elders and deacons.
Booker, 37, had been the church’s pastor of students and worship.
The location and other circumstances of Booker’s Nov. 27 death weren’t disclosed. His obituary said he lived in Nashua with his wife and their son.
A memorial service has been held.
Nashua police Sgt. John Cinelli said detectives were investigating Booker with “another police department,” believed to be Hollis.
Booker’s name did not come up in a search of cases and defendants, an indication he was never charged with any crimes.
According to Cinelli, the investigation is still active though the suspect is deceased.
Church officials, in a lengthy statement issued Nov. 29, said they became aware on Nov. 22 of the investigation into “credible allegations of sexual abuse against minors, implicating Jarrett Booker.”
They said he had been “an integral part of our church,” serving as worship pastor “for nearly a decade.”
They said the investigation “prompted an internal review” by church leaders, “which revealed further evidence of misconduct,” presumably involving Booker.
The behavior, though alleged, “undeniably violated the moral and ethical standards we expect of our leaders,” the statement read in part.
Leaders said they “have been, and continue to, fully cooperate with (police) in the investigation,” and said they had “encouraged Jarrett to do the same.”
Anyone with additional information about the allegations is asked to contact Nashua police at 603-594-3500 or Hollis police at 603-465-7637.
“Our hearts are heavy for the victims, Jarrett’s family, and our congregation, many of whom knew and respected him for years,” church leaders wrote.
They said they “are dedicated to supporting everyone affected by Jarrett’s inexcusable actions.”
