Bethesda, Md. -- A registered sex offender hired by a church that operates a Bethesda nursery school has resigned.
Bethesda Cooperative Nursery School leaders say 33-year-old Travis Buffington has left his job as a maintenance man and is no longer living in a house provided by the Church in Bethesda. The nursery school is housed in the church building.
Records show that Buffington is registered as a sex offender after a conviction for possessing child pornography.
Pastor Todd Thomas defended his 2007 hiring of Buffington, saying he didn't believe the man was a threat.
In a statement Sunday, school officials say Buffington will remain a member of the church's congregation, but won't be allowed on church grounds during school days or school-sponsored activities.
Officials say the church also plans to strengthen oversight of its hiring practices.
