A Houston-area pastor convicted of online solicitation of a minor walked free from prison Tuesday after serving less than half of his 25-year sentence, sparking immediate controversy when supporters planned a public celebration at a local church.

Church Cancels Welcome Home Event

Jeremiah Busby received parole and was released Tuesday following his 2017 conviction for attempting to meet what he believed was a 14-year-old girl for sex. Supporters organized a July 4 welcome-home celebration at Set Free Church on Uvalde Road, promoting the event with flyers across social media. The church quickly canceled the rental and refunded the organizer’s payment after learning about Busby’s criminal background. Church leaders stated they had no knowledge of his sex offender status when booking the event and cited safety concerns due to children in their congregation. Busby must register as a sex offender and will remain on parole for approximately 14 years.

Prison Ministry Leader Caught In Sting

ABC13 first reported Busby’s arrest in 2015 when he was actively involved in prison ministry. Law enforcement arrested him during an online child exploitation operation after investigators said he believed he was meeting a minor. He was convicted two years later and sentenced to 25 years in prison. The case represents one of many online stings conducted by Texas authorities targeting adults who solicit minors through digital platforms. Beyond this conviction, Busby previously served prison time in Dallas County for murder and aggravated robbery, and also has a drug conviction on his record.

Organizer Defends Second Chances

Randy San Miguel, who organized the canceled celebration, met Busby while both were incarcerated. San Miguel, who served time for stealing cars and now conducts prison outreach, defended his decision to support Busby’s release. “I’m an advocate for second chances because someone did it for me,” San Miguel told ABC13. When questioned about Busby being around children, San Miguel said any contact would be monitored, adding, “How far do you take it? How far do you beat a dead dog? He was paroled, and he met his requirements.”

Community Safety Concerns

The early release raises questions about parole decisions for sex offenders in Texas. Busby served approximately nine years of his 25-year sentence before receiving parole. Sex offender registration requirements will follow him throughout his parole period, restricting where he can live and work. The cancellation of the church event highlights ongoing tensions between rehabilitation advocates and those prioritizing child safety. Texas law requires sex offenders to maintain distance from schools, playgrounds, and other locations where children gather regularly.