Children’s pastor arrested on child pornography charges 

A Seaford pastor faces 10 felony counts of dealing in child pornography following a state task force investigation.

Police charged James R. Dryden, 74, Feb. 15 after the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force received multiple CyberTips generated by Microsoft warning that Dryden’s IP address had accessed and downloaded child sexual abuse material, officials said. Upon receiving the CyberTips, officials said, detectives from the Delaware State Police and investigators from the Department of Justice contacted Dryden at his home and found additional material following a forensic examination of his personal devices.  

Dryden was arraigned and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution in default of $500,000 cash bail. The DOJ and DSP remind the public that the charges in this case are allegations, and that the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.  

“The evidence in this investigation is deeply disturbing,” said Attorney General Kathleen Jennings in a press release. “Nothing is more important than protecting our kids, and I’m grateful for the members of the ICAC Task Force who dedicate their lives to keeping our most vulnerable citizens safe.” 

Officials said Dryden has been a children’s pastor with Stein Highway Church of God for more than 20 years. He is not charged with contacting a child, and investigators are not currently aware of any victims affiliated with the church. However, officials said, given the nature of Dryden’s work and the fact that it brought him into regular contact with children, the state is seeking any information the public may have about this case. Anyone with information should contact the Delaware ICAC Task Force at 302-739-2030.