KENNESAW, GA — The state Board of Pardons and Paroles is reconsidering its decision to grant parole to former Kennesaw Mayor Leonard Church after receiving what officials describe as new information.

Church, who also served as a Kennesaw city councilman, was sentenced to 40 years, with 18 years to serve in prison, after pleading guilty to child molestation and sexual exploitation of a child.

Church pleaded guilty to sexually abusing a nine-year-old boy and possessing what prosecutors said was nearly 1,000 images of child pornography.

The board’s decision to grant Church parole led to backlash.

State officials say the board received new information after initially granting parole. The information is not public record.

The board can rescind a parole decision at any time before an offender is released from prison.

This is a developing story. Stay with WSB Radio News for updates.