Nationwide — Allie Thompson, an African American elderly woman from Scott County, Mississippi, was dragged out of her church by sheriff deputies on Father’s Day after she and other members violated a court order banning them from attending services. The incident highlighted deeper tensions over church leadership and the removal of longtime roles without notice.

Video from the service at Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church shows Thompson being pulled from the mother’s board section by two deputies. She can be heard shouting, “You’re hurting me,” as they dragged her toward the door. Thompson later said the deputies wrestled her to the floor and twisted her arm during the removal.

According to WLBT, Sheriff Mike Lee confirmed that Thompson and six others had been under a court order since October 2024. The order followed an altercation in September that allegedly involved threats and physical assault against a deacon, who had to be hospitalized, and other church members.

Despite the court order, Thompson and others showed up for service. The sheriff claimed deputies initially tried to get Thompson to leave peacefully but had to use force after she refused to comply.

Tensions at Mt. Olive had already been rising. Several members say they were suddenly removed from long-standing roles. Addie Johnson, who had taught Sunday School for decades, said she was unexpectedly replaced that morning without any explanation.

Thompson believes the conflict began when she and others questioned the leadership of Pastor Charles Bell. She accused him of making decisions without following the church’s bylaws, including appointing a finance committee without a vote.

She also claimed her husband, the church’s oldest deacon, was left out of key decisions. “He makes decisions without his knowledge,” she said.

Moreover, Thompson denies being involved in the September altercation and says her long history at the church proves her commitment and respect for the congregation.

The final decision on the group’s membership will be made by a church vote later this July.