Pastor Chris Avell of Dad’s Place Church in Bryan, Ohio has been found guilty of a criminal charge regarding a fire code violation filed against him by city officials.
Pastor Avell was fined $200 and given a 60-day suspended jail sentence by Bryan Municipal Court judge Kent North. The judge stayed his decision for 30 days to allow Avell’s attorneys to appeal.
“No pastor in America, including Pastor Chris Avell, should be pronounced guilty for providing temporary shelter to those in desperate need,” said Ryan Gardner, Counsel for First Liberty in a press release.
“Only government officials could say with a straight face that people are safer in the sub-zero temperatures on the street than inside the warmth of a church.”
“For over a year, the City of Bryan, Ohio has been aggressively attacking the church in court, including alleged zoning violations, middle-of-the-night fire inspections, police antagonism, and even criminal charges filed against the church’s pastor.”
“And while city officials demand the church install an expensive fire suppression system, the city does not require all of its motels, most of its apartment complexes, and even a senior living facility to install fire suppression systems in their buildings”, the statement continued.
“In response to the recent ruling from Bryan Municipal Court, the City of Bryan wishes to remind the public that the ongoing legal challenges regarding Dad’s Place have been in progress since October 2023”, said Bryan Mayor Carrie Schlade in a release regarding the ruling.
“The city remains committed to addressing homelessness within the community and continues to collaborate with appropriate agencies.”
“At the same time, the city is dedicated to upholding laws related to public safety, particularly fire code enforcement, which is critical to ensuring the well-being of all residents.”
“The City of Bryan reiterates that no decision has been made to prevent Dad’s Place from operating as a church. However, the residential operations of the facility must cease until proper building and fire code applications are filed and approved by the State of Ohio.”
“The city will continue to work with the appropriate agencies to address homelessness and support faith-based organizations in fulfilling their missions while ensuring the safety of the broader community”, added Schlade.
The Court of Appeals of Ohio, Sixth Appellate District, recently issued a stay against the city in their lawsuit against Dad’s Place, allowing the church to continue operating.