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Gary Thomas Keesee Jr., 36, was indicted Monday in Knox County on 27 felony charges, including 11 counts of rape, 11 counts of gross sexual imposition, and five counts of unlawful sexual conduct with a minor. Prosecutors allege that the crimes occurred between May 2002 and October 2011, according to WOSU.
Prosecutors revealed that three girls, aged 6 to 15 at the time, are the alleged victims. While all were members of Faith Life Church, located at 2407 Beech Rd NW, New Albany, OH 43054, officials confirmed there is no indication the crimes took place on church property. Some of the victims have since moved to other states.
Licking County Prosecutor Jenny Wells commended the young women who stepped forward, calling their courage commendable. She confirmed that Keesee held various roles at the church during the years of the alleged offenses, some of which reportedly occurred while he was also a minor.
Keesee was arrested Friday at his home near Johnstown and remains in the Licking County Jail. Authorities have yet to set his bond, citing concerns that he may attempt to flee. He is scheduled to appear in Knox County Common Pleas Court on Wednesday.
Licking County Sheriff Randy Thorp stressed the importance of focusing on the victims, stating, "Our focus is on the victims. That’s what matters to us." He revealed that his office took on the case in February after other agencies declined to investigate due to conflicts of interest.
Thorp also noted that some victims initially came forward in December, and investigators have since interviewed around 40 witnesses. The investigation remains active, and officials are examining whether other adults may face charges.
Faith Life Church, where Keesee’s parents, Gary and Drenda Keesee, serve as co-pastors, addressed the allegations in a statement released by their attorney, Katari Buck. The church emphasized its full cooperation with law enforcement and clarified that the alleged incidents occurred nearly two decades ago and were unrelated to church activities.
"We know this is a difficult time for our community, our congregation, and all families involved," the statement read.
Sheriff Thorp and Prosecutor Wells underscored the importance of supporting the victims and ensuring their stories are heard. As the case progresses, authorities remain focused on delivering justice for those impacted.
Victims of abuse by individuals in positions of trust, such as church employees, often face significant challenges when considering their legal options. To provide clarity, experienced attorney John Bey shares actionable information on the rights of survivors, the responsibilities of institutions, and the steps victims can take to hold offenders and organizations accountable in light of church members abused by church employees.
Editor Darla Medina: For victims of sexual assault by someone connected to a church, what legal avenues are available?
Attorney John Bey: Victims in cases like these often have both criminal and civil options. On the criminal side, law enforcement handles prosecution, as we're seeing in this case. However, victims also have the right to pursue civil lawsuits against the perpetrator or any institution that may have failed to protect them.
Medina: Could the church itself be held accountable in cases like this?
Bey: It depends on the evidence. If it’s proven that the church was aware of the abuse, ignored red flags, or failed to take reasonable steps to protect members, the institution could face liability. This is particularly true if the perpetrator was acting in an official capacity during the abuse.
Medina: What obstacles might victims face when seeking justice?
Bey: Victims often encounter challenges such as statutes of limitations, difficulty proving institutional negligence, or emotional trauma that makes coming forward incredibly tough. But changes in Ohio law and increased public awareness have made it easier for survivors to pursue their cases.
Medina: What would you say to victims struggling with whether to come forward?
Bey: I’d tell them that they’re not alone and that there are attorneys, counselors, and advocacy groups ready to support them. Taking that first step is hard, but it’s a powerful way to reclaim control and promote accountability.
If you or someone you love has experienced abuse by a church employee, remember that you don’t have to face this alone. Legal options are available to help you seek justice and hold those responsible accountable. Our team is here to provide compassionate support and expert guidance. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation and take the first step toward reclaiming control of your future.
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