CINCINNATI, Ohio — The youth leadership director of one of Ohio’s largest churches has been terminated following allegations that he secretly recorded women at a local gym, according to church officials and police.
Allegations Lead to Immediate Dismissal
Joel Firebaugh, the head of the “Next Gen” ministry at Crossroads Church in Cincinnati, was removed from his position last week after police contacted church leaders regarding allegations of nonconsensual recording. Senior Pastor Brian Tome informed congregants of the firing in an email distributed Thursday, which was later posted on the church’s website and obtained by The Roys Report and local media outlets.
Tome said police informed the church that Firebaugh had been “secretly filming women who were working out without their consent” at a Crunch Fitness gym in the city’s Oakley neighborhood. Describing the alleged conduct as a “gross violation of the standards expected of our team,” Tome confirmed that Firebaugh “has been removed from staff.”
Investigation Underway
The Cincinnati Police Department has opened an investigation into the incident but has not released a public report. Authorities have not yet said how many women may have been recorded, what device was used, or whether criminal charges will follow.
Voyeurism cases in gyms and other businesses have increasingly drawn public concern, as many customers expect privacy in fitness environments despite the prevalence of phones and cameras. Though such actions are widely viewed as invasive, legality often depends on specific circumstances and state laws.
Church Cooperation and Response
In a statement to The Roys Report, church spokesperson Erin Caproni said Firebaugh joined Crossroads in 2021 and that all staff and volunteers who work with children or students undergo background checks and safety training. Those checks are repeated every three years, and ministry areas are equipped with security cameras to protect minors, she said.
“We’re grieved that this occurred and are willing to offer any support to those who were harmed,” Tome wrote in his message to the congregation. He added that the church is conducting internal due diligence to confirm whether any similar incidents have taken place and urged anyone with information to contact the church or Cincinnati police.
Church Continues Ministry Amid Scandal
Crossroads leadership emphasized that this is the first report of misconduct involving Firebaugh and that they have “no further knowledge of additional incidents.” The church is reviewing internal structures to safeguard congregants and staff while ensuring ongoing work with students continues uninterrupted.
Founded in the mid-1990s, Crossroads Church has grown to become one of the largest congregations in the country, with nine locations across Ohio and Kentucky and a large online community. The church describes its Next Gen program as a leadership path for young adults interested in ministry careers.
Firebaugh has not publicly commented on the allegations as of Tuesday afternoon, and police have not confirmed whether charges are forthcoming.
Legal Paths for Families After Misconduct Allegations Against Church Youth Director
Following allegations that a Cincinnati church youth director secretly recorded women at a local gym, questions have surfaced about what families and possible victims can do next. Ohio sexual abuse lawyer John Bey discusses the legal options available, including potential civil claims and how institutions can be held accountable when misconduct involves church employees.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: If the allegations prove true, what types of legal actions might the women involved consider?
John Bey, Esq.: In situations like this, the alleged victims may have grounds for both criminal and civil claims. On the criminal side, prosecutors could charge offenses such as voyeurism or invasion of privacy, depending on what the investigation uncovers. Separately, each affected person could file a civil lawsuit for emotional distress or violation of privacy rights.
Banville: Would the church face potential liability as well?
Bey: Possibly, yes. If any evidence shows the church ignored warning signs or failed to exercise reasonable oversight, it could face claims for negligent supervision or hiring. That said, every case depends on the facts—whether the employer could have reasonably foreseen or prevented the conduct.
Banville: What should victims do now if they suspect they were recorded?
Bey: They should document everything, contact law enforcement immediately, and consider consulting an attorney who’s handled sensitive misconduct cases before. Acting quickly helps preserve evidence and protect their rights.
Speak Confidentially With an Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has been affected by sexual misconduct involving a church employee or youth leader, you don’t have to face the situation alone. Our legal team helps victims and their families understand their rights, explore options for accountability, and begin the path toward healing. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation to discuss your case and learn how experienced attorneys can stand by your side.
