Accusations of sex abuse in an Amish community were raised during a custody hearing in Jefferson County on Thursday.

The custody hearing was between Aiden and Wilma Troyer over their two children. Aiden Troyer currently has temporary custody.

In court Thursday, Sheriff Fred Abdalla testified that a 12-year-old girl was brutally raped in the community near Bergholz, and he expressed concern that there could be more potential victims.

"Yes, there was sexual abuse going on in that community," Abdalla said.

Abdalla testified some members of the community are being intimidated by the bishop, Sam Mullet, who is Wilma Troyer's father. The sheriff said Mullet "has fear instilled in all those people; mind control in all those people."

In September, Abdalla went to the Amish community to uphold a court order to retrieve the children from Wilma Troyer.

Abdalla maintained that threats were made against his life, therefore he was forced to bring armed backup to the Amish schoolhouse.

Aiden Troyer's father also took the stand and said he does not want his grandchildren living in Bergholz.

A judge will ultimately decide who will obtain custody of the children. Stay with NEWS9 and WTOV9.com for continuing coverage as details become available.

-Renee Cardelli & Chandi Lowry, NEWS9