Ohio Megachurch Suspends Pastor Amid Misconduct Probe

Crossroads Church investigating "inappropriate physical humor" by founding pastor Brian Tome during 2015 video shoot

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Crossroads Church, a large megachurch in southwest Ohio, has suspended its founding pastor Brian Tome as it investigates allegations of "inappropriate physical humor" during a 2015 video shoot. The church says it previously looked into the matter in 2024 but is now hiring a third-party investigator to review the incident.

Why it matters

The suspension of a high-profile megachurch pastor amid misconduct allegations highlights the ongoing challenges churches face in addressing issues of accountability and transparency, especially at large institutions with significant influence and power within their communities.

The details

According to reports, the allegations against Tome stem from an incident during a 2015 video shoot for a church presentation, where he allegedly engaged in "inappropriate physical humor" that upset a church member present. The church says it previously investigated the claims in 2024, formally admonishing Tome to be "mindful to be above reproach." However, the church is now hiring a third-party investigator to review the matter further.

  • The alleged incident occurred during a 2015 video shoot for a church presentation.
  • The church investigated the claims in 2024.
  • Tome was suspended from his role in March 2026.

The players

Brian Tome

The founding pastor of Crossroads Church, a large megachurch in southwest Ohio, who has been suspended amid an investigation into allegations of "inappropriate physical humor" during a 2015 video shoot.

Crossroads Church

A megachurch based in southwest Ohio that has grown to over 34,000 members and is known for its focus on ministry to men.

Joel Firebaugh

A former staff member at Crossroads Church who was fired last month for secretly filming women working out at a local fitness center.

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What’s next

The church has hired a third-party investigator to review the allegations against Pastor Tome, and says it will provide updates as more information becomes available.

The takeaway

This case underscores the need for large, influential churches to maintain robust systems of accountability and transparency, especially when it comes to addressing allegations of misconduct by senior leaders. The church's handling of this situation will be closely watched by its members and the broader community.