Former Youth Leader From Fairfax Faces Multiple Sex Crime Charges

ANNANDALE, VA — Thomas Weaver, a 61-year-old Fairfax resident and former youth leader, was charged Wednesday for multiple sexual assaults against a juvenile, according to a police release.

The victim's family contacted police last month to report that a family member had been sexually assaulted by a member of Saint Matthews United Methodist Church in Annandale, according to police. The church member had occasionally served as a youth activities leader but had not served in that capacity since 2020.

On several occasions since 2020, Weaver coerced the victim to a secluded area in Annandale, where he sexually assaulted the victim, according to police.

On Wednesday, police executed a search warrant on Weaver's residence, where they found numerous images of child pornography, according to the release.

Police charged Weaver with 20 counts of possession of child pornography and five counts of indecent liberties of a minor by a custodian. Weaver was taken to the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center, where he is being held without bond.

The church is cooperating with FCPD on its investigation and had contacted Fairfax County Child Protective Services with concerns about Weaver.

Following Weaver's arrest, Paul Steidler, a spokesperson for St. Matthew’s United Methodist Church issued the following statement:

St. Matthew’s UMC is saddened and deeply troubled by this event. Our fervent prayers and heartfelt concerns go out to those directly impacted by the situation and for whom this is a troubling, triggering event.

St Matthew’s UMC is fully cooperating with law enforcement on this important matter. We urge anyone who may be able to aid law enforcement on this case, or who knows of any inappropriate actions towards children, to immediately contact law enforcement.

St. Matthew’s UMC has rigorous child protection policies and is completely committed to having a safe and secure environment for all children.

Since Weaver possibly worked as a youth leader at other churches, police believe there may be other victims. Anyone who has information about this case or believe Weaver may have had inappropriate contact with them is asked to call 703-246-7800, option 3.

Anonymous tips may also be submitted through Crime Solvers by phone – 1-866-411-TIPS (866-411-8477), and online. The public may also download the "P3 Tips" app "Fairfax Co Crime Solvers. Anonymous tipsters are eligible for cash rewards of up to $1,000.