New Albany, OH – Gary Thomas Keesee Jr., son of Faith Life Church founders Gary and Drenda Keesee, was arrested Friday at his Johnstown home and charged with two counts of rape following a months-long investigation by the Licking County Sheriff’s Office. The arrest stems from allegations that Keesee Jr., 36, sexually abused a child on more than 50 occasions when the victim was just 5 and 6 years old, according to Mount Vernon Municipal Court records. Two additional individuals have since come forward, also accusing Keesee Jr. of sexual abuse.
Son of Faith Life Church Leaders Arrested on Multiple Rape Charges After Lengthy Investigation
The initial report, filed on Christmas Eve with the Knox County Sheriff’s Office, stated the alleged abuse occurred at two locations within Knox County. During the investigation, one victim reported being assaulted more than 100 times before turning 15, with much of the abuse taking place in Knox County. The Licking County Sheriff’s Office took over the case after both the Knox County Sheriff’s Office and the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation recused themselves due to conflicts of interest.
Court documents reveal that the alleged abuse began when Keesee Jr. was 12 years old and continued for several years. The victims referenced in the indictment were between 6 and 15 years old at the time of the alleged incidents. Investigators have spoken to about 40 witnesses, and the case remains active.
Additional Sexual Abuse Charges Against Megachurch Leader’s Son
On Monday, a Knox County grand jury indicted Keesee Jr. on nearly 30 charges, including 11 counts of rape, 11 counts of gross sexual imposition, and five counts of unlawful sexual conduct with a minor. He remains held at the Licking County Justice Center, with a bond set at $2 million. Keesee Jr. has pleaded not guilty to all charges through his attorney, who maintains his client’s innocence.
Response from Faith Life Church
Faith Life Church, which has campuses in New Albany and Powell and more than 3,000 members, issued a statement through its legal counsel, Asiatico Law, PLLC. The church stated, “Faith Life Church decries all forms of sexual abuse and stands with survivors of such abuse in faith and prayer.” The statement emphasized that the alleged incidents occurred approximately two decades ago and did not involve Faith Life Church. The church also pledged cooperation with legal authorities and committed to transparency as the case progresses, while refraining from further public comment.
Community Reaction to Sexual Abuse Charges
The news has sparked strong reactions among former and current members of Faith Life Church, with some expressing anger and concern about the safety of children within the community. The investigation and subsequent arrest have raised questions about accountability and oversight in organizations with significant influence.
Keesee Jr.’s case is set for further hearings, and the investigation continues as authorities review additional allegations. The Licking County Sheriff’s Office and Knox County Prosecutor’s Office plan to provide updates as the case develops.
Legal Pathways for Families: Ohio Attorney Explores Options After Church Leader Abuse Allegations
As allegations of sexual abuse against the son of a prominent megachurch leader unfold, families affected by similar trauma face urgent questions about legal recourse. John Bey, an Ohio attorney specializing in abuse cases, outlines actionable steps for survivors seeking accountability, from civil claims to institutional liability. His guidance addresses both immediate protections and long-term strategies for navigating cases involving powerful religious institutions.
Laurence Banville: For survivors of abuse involving religious leaders, what immediate steps should they consider?
John Bey, Esq.: First, prioritize safety and document everything—dates, locations, and any communications related to the abuse. Ohio allows survivors to file civil lawsuits even decades after the abuse occurred, thanks to extended statutes of limitations. Criminal charges are handled separately, but civil cases can secure compensation and accountability.
Banville: How do these cases differ when they involve powerful institutions like megachurches?
Bey: Institutions often have legal teams and insurance carriers working to limit liability. We’ve seen patterns where organizations distance themselves from perpetrators retroactively. Survivors need attorneys who understand how to investigate institutional negligence, including whether leaders ignored warnings or failed to protect vulnerable individuals.
Banville: What legal avenues exist beyond direct lawsuits against perpetrators?
Bey: Third-party liability claims can hold institutions accountable for negligent supervision or enabling a predator. In Ohio, recent legal reforms also allow survivors to sue entities that turned a blind eye to abuse. Evidence like internal records or prior complaints becomes critical here.
Banville: Any advice for survivors hesitant to come forward due to fear or shame?
Bey: Ohio law protects survivor anonymity in civil filings, and support networks exist to help them navigate the process. Legal action isn’t just about compensation—it’s about reclaiming power and preventing future harm.
Banville: Final thoughts for those affected by cases like the Keesee Jr. allegations?
Bey: No survivor is alone. Legal teams specializing in clergy abuse understand the unique trauma involved and can guide survivors through every step, from therapy referrals to courtroom advocacy.
Your Path to Accountability Starts Here
Families impacted by abuse involving religious leaders deserve support and legal clarity. If your child has suffered harm, our team offers confidential guidance and free consultations to explore your options. Contact us today to take the first step toward securing justice and safeguarding others from similar trauma. You’re not alone—let us help you navigate this journey with care and determination.
Source
Mr. Banville is a personal injury attorney who has experience in handling auto accidents, work injuries, medical malpractice, dog bites, slip and falls, and representing survivors and victims of sexual abuse. Mr. Banville is affiliated with law firms in Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, D.C., and Maryland. Abuse Guardian
