LANCASTER — The Fairfield County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed an ongoing investigation into abuse allegations related to the probe that recently led to charges against a former Faith Life Church employee in another county.
Nicole Reynolds, a records specialist and administrative assistant for the Fairfield County Sheriff’s Office, said Tuesday the investigation is active.
She said the investigation is related to the probe taking place just 50 minutes north in Licking County.
Another news outlet reported the sheriff’s office received the case about a week ago. But Reynolds could not confirm that detail and declined to comment further.
She added she did not know if the suspect being investigated is a former or current employee of Faith Life Church.
Reynolds said the detectives will present findings to the county prosecutor’s office once it concludes its investigation.
Licking County Sheriff’s Office detective Gus Moore said Monday the neighboring agency’s investigation involves one suspect.
Licking County Prosecutor Jenny Wells said Monday during a press conference that the incidents being investigated by Fairfield County Sheriff’s Office happened in Fairfield County.
27-count indictment against Keesee
Licking County officials arrested Gary Thomas “Tom” Keesee Jr. on Friday. By Monday, a Knox County grand jury indicted him on 27 counts related to sexual abuse against three victims.
Keesee, the church’s former chief media officer, is scheduled to appear before Knox County Common Pleas Judge Richard Wetzel for an arraignment and bond hearing on Wednesday.
Investigators in Licking County said their investigation, launched in early February, spanned multiple states and up to 40 witnesses.
Keesee’s alleged victims had all grown up together as members Faith Life Church, investigators have said. The church has thousands of members at sites in Licking, Delaware and Knox counties.
Officials there said the investigation into Keesee continues. They asked for anyone with information to contact them, including potential additional victims.
“These courageous young women have spoken out and come forward and they are to be commended for their bravery and supported,” Wells said of the three that were allegedly victimized by Keesee.
