Former Nashville church leader accused of molesting kids as pastor pleaded not guilty

Matthew Dennis "Denny" Patterson is accused of molesting at least eight children while he was pastor at Nolensville Road Baptist Church. (Photo: The Tennessean via Metropolitan Nashville Police Department)
Matthew Dennis "Denny" Patterson is accused of molesting at least eight children while he was pastor at Nolensville Road Baptist Church. (Photo: The Tennessean via Metropolitan Nashville Police Department)
photo Matthew Dennis "Denny" Patterson is accused of molesting at least eight children while he was pastor at Nolensville Road Baptist Church. (Photo: The Tennessean via Metropolitan Nashville Police Department)

The former South Nashville church leader accused of molesting at least eight kids while he was pastor at Nolensville Road Baptist Church pleaded not guilty Wednesday during his first court appearance.

Matthew Dennis Patterson, known as Denny, appeared briefly via video chat from a local jail. He was wearing an orange prison jumpsuit and sitting in what looked like an office space.

Speaking in a monotone, Patterson told Judge Steve Dozier he could not afford to hire an attorney. A lawyer from the public defender's office accepted his case and entered a not guilty plea on his behalf.

Read more at our news partner's website, tennessean.com.

Upcoming Events