A prominent 82-year-old pastor of a Pontiac church with vast community involvement has been accused of a sex crime in Rochester Hills — an allegation his attorney said is “ridiculous.”

The Reverend Douglas Jones is charged with one count of fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct — a misdemeanor — that allegedly occurred Aug. 26, 2024. The Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office recently authorized the charge, and Jones was arraigned in 52-3 District Court in Rochester Hills on March 20. He’s due back in court next week for a probable cause conference.

Jones, senior pastor of Welcome Missionary Baptist Church since 1989, is well-known for his ministries and other involvement throughout Pontiac. The Oakland County Health Network, of which Jones is a member, describes him as a “pillar” for the Pontiac area who “has been recognized by many organizations for the effort and energy he puts into the community,” as stated on its website.

Contacted by phone on Friday, Jones’ attorney Cyril Hall told The Oakland Press: “We’re shocked by the allegations, although we’re confident they will be dismissed…we categorically deny any allegations, and know the pastor would not engage in this type of behavior.” Fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct involves unwanted sexual contact but does not include penetration. It’s punishable by up to two years imprisonment and/or a fine of $500.

Hall said the allegation “doesn’t make any sense” and that the defense will be “vigorously pursued.”

Hall also said he “saw a name” in the complaint, and family members of that person continue to attend Welcome Missionary Baptist Church.

Jones’ volunteer activity includes the Greater Pontiac Community Coalition — which he founded in 1994 — the Oakland County Health Network, past presidency of the Oakland County Ministerial Fellowship, and more.

As stated on the OCHN website: “Pastor Jones sits on several boards and has been recognized by many organizations for the effort and energy he puts into the community. Pastor Jones is heavily involved with our community’s youth and has established Ministries for Young Men Making a Difference, the Teen Esteem Ministry, a Domestic Violence Ministry, and many more programs to help the greater Pontiac community.”

In February, the Detroit Red Wings recognized him as a “Black History Month Game Changers honoree.”

Welcome Missionary Baptist Church declined comment on the allegation against Jones.

At Jones’ arraignment, he was assigned a $10,000 personal bond, which requires no cash or surety.

Reporter Peg McNichol contributed to this story.