BRIDGEPORT, Conn. (ABP) -- A former American Baptist youth minister has pleaded guilty to sending sexually explicit emails and photos to a 15-year-old girl he was counseling.

At his arraignment Nov. 5, David Esarey, 30, denied sending photos to the girl and claimed teenagers must have used his computer at Stepney Baptist Church in Bridgeport, Conn., without his knowledge.

Pleading guilty to reduced charges Jan. 22, however, Esarey admitted sending the emails to a child he knew was younger than 16, according to the Connecticut Post.

Originally charged with employing a minor in an obscene performance, third-degree child pornography and risk of injury to a minor, Esarey pleaded guilty to risk of injury to a child. He is scheduled to be sentenced March 13. An assistant prosecutor said he will recommend that Esarey receive probation and be required to register as a sex offender.

Kevin Merritt, pastor of Stepney Baptist Church, said Esarey has not worked at the church in any capacity since his arrest. "I am glad he is accepting responsibility for his actions," Merritt told the newspaper.

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