A former worship pastor from Michigan has pleaded guilty to multiple felony charges after admitting to secretly placing a camera in a church staff bathroom.

William Johnson, 38, entered his plea on 14th April 2024 admitting guilt to 15 charges including child sexually abusive activity, possession of abusive material, unlawful surveillance, tampering with evidence and computer-related crimes, as reported by MLive.

His sentencing is scheduled for 22nd May 2024 and he could face up to 20 years in prison.

Johnson had served at 2|42 Community Church in Brighton, Michigan, where a staff member uncovered the hidden device last year in a bathroom used by church employees and volunteers. Authorities stated the restroom was not open to the general public.

Following the discovery, Johnson admitted to church leaders that he had installed the camera “intermittently for the past two years” to target specific individuals.

In a message to the congregation, church leader Craig Ryan expressed the community’s grief and disappointment: “We consider this a violation against our entire church.”

Johnson was dismissed from his pastoral role in September 2024.

He remains in custody at Livingston County Jail with bond set at $250,000 (£187,600).