COLUMBUS, Ohio — Gary Thomas Keesee Jr., the 36-year-old son of Faith Life Church founders Gary and Drenda Keesee, has been arrested on two first-degree felony rape charges involving minors. He was taken into custody at his Johnstown home without incident, according to the Licking County Sheriff’s Office.
The allegations, which date back nearly two decades, involve three accusers and span across both Knox and Licking counties. One of the victims claimed she was sexually assaulted more than 100 times before the age of 15, with much of the abuse occurring in Knox County. Another accuser stated the abuse began when she was just five or six years old.
An affidavit revealed that some of the alleged crimes occurred between 2001 and 2003, when Keesee Jr. was between 12 and 14 years old. Another series of abuse is alleged to have taken place between 2006 and 2008. In both instances, the victims were under the age of 13.
Faith Life Church has publicly stated that the allegations do not involve the church and that the leadership has fully cooperated with investigators.
“We responded in accordance with the information available to us then, and we remain committed to transparency and truth,” the church stated via legal counsel.
Keesee Jr.’s case is set to go before a Knox County Grand Jury on Monday, with additional charges under consideration. A press conference is scheduled following the grand jury proceedings.
The investigation has gained traction on social media in recent months, with victims stepping forward to share their stories. Keesee Jr. previously sought a protection order, citing concerns for his safety.
Eric Vennon, a former church member and father, expressed shock and anger:
“He was presented as a rockstar at this church… unless there’s real transparency and accountability, I think this church needs to shut down.”
Authorities urge anyone with more information to come forward as the investigation continues.
