Legal Analysis By Attorneys
Breaking Legal News
The son of Gary and Drenda Keesee, founders and senior pastors of Faith Life Church located at 2407 Beech Rd NW, New Albany, OH 43054, has been indicted on 27 counts of sex crimes following months of allegations, including one from his sister, Kirsten McKinney. Gary Thomas "Tom" Keesee, 36, was charged with 11 counts of rape, 11 counts of gross sexual imposition, and five counts of unlawful sexual conduct with a minor, according to The Columbus Dispatch. The Licking County Sheriff’s Office announced the indictment on Monday.
Court documents allege that Keesee committed these crimes between May 2002 and November 2006. Licking County Prosecutor Jenny Wells revealed that investigators interviewed approximately 40 witnesses and that three victims have already come forward. The victims, all former members of Faith Life Church, were between 6 and 15 years old when the alleged abuse occurred.
One victim reported that Keesee began sexually assaulting her when she was 5 years old, with the abuse continuing until she was 6. Another victim accused him of repeatedly touching her private areas from the age of 8 until she turned 15. "These courageous young women have spoken out and come forward, and they are to be commended for their bravery and supported," Wells said during a press conference.
Keesee, who previously served as the chief media officer at Faith Life Church, resigned from his position in August 2022. He is currently being held at the Licking County Justice Center. The sheriff’s office confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, urging anyone with additional information to contact Captain Jay Cook or Captain Gus Moore.
Keesee’s parents, Gary and Drenda Keesee, have publicly defended him against the allegations. Earlier this year, Pastor Gary Keesee told the congregation, "There’s another side. And the truth will come out." Drenda Keesee, who was recently elected as a Knox County commissioner, also denied the claims, asking for God’s forgiveness for "those who hurt us."
The indictment has sent shockwaves through the Faith Life Church community, raising questions about accountability and trust within religious institutions. As the case develops, authorities continue to call for anyone with information to step forward and assist in the pursuit of justice.
When allegations of sexual abuse surface involving church leaders, families are often left grappling with complex legal and emotional challenges. To better understand the rights and options available, experienced Ohio sexual abuse attorney John Bey shares his perspective on how survivors and their families can navigate the legal system. From criminal charges to potential civil claims, Bey outlines the steps families can take to seek accountability and support during these difficult times.
Editor Darla Medina: Given the allegations involving Gary Keesee Jr. and the connection to a prominent church, what legal avenues are available to survivors of abuse in these circumstances?
Attorney John Bey: Survivors in cases like this have legal options. Survivors may file civil lawsuits to seek damages from individuals or institutions they believe are responsible for enabling or failing to prevent the abuse.
Medina: When institutions like churches are named, how does that impact the legal process?
Bey: If a survivor believes an institution, such as a church, played a role—whether through negligence or by covering up abuse—it can be held accountable in civil court. These cases often examine whether the institution knew or should have known about the abuse and whether appropriate steps were taken to protect vulnerable individuals.
Medina: What challenges might survivors face when coming forward after so many years?
Bey: Time can complicate these cases, especially if statutes of limitations have expired. However, Ohio has made progress in extending these timeframes for certain types of abuse. Survivors may also face emotional and psychological hurdles, as coming forward can be incredibly difficult. Support systems and trauma-informed legal representation are key.
Medina: What do you hope survivors take away from cases like this?
Bey: I hope survivors know they are not alone and that there are legal mechanisms to hold perpetrators and enablers accountable. Every case like this reinforces the importance of listening to survivors and ensuring they have access to justice, no matter how much time has passed.
If your child has been sexually abused by a church leader, you don’t have to face this battle alone. Understanding your rights and exploring your legal options can bring both clarity and empowerment during such a challenging time. Our experienced legal team is here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today for a free and confidential consultation to discuss how we can help you seek justice and hold those responsible accountable.
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