BRYAN, Ohio — Pastor Chris Avell of Dad’s Place church was found guilty on Tuesday of violating fire codes by permitting individuals to sleep in the church overnight. The ruling, delivered by Judge Kent North, concluded that the evidence against the pastor was almost overwhelming.
The case stems from the pastor’s decision to allow homeless individuals to seek refuge inside the church during frigid winter nights. However, Avell’s actions violated local safety codes, particularly fire regulations, which led to criminal charges. Judge North sentenced Avell to 60 days in jail, with the entire sentence suspended on the condition that Avell comply with fire codes for the next two years. Additionally, the pastor was ordered to pay a $200 fine and court costs, although the implementation of both the fine and sentence has been temporarily delayed for one month.
Avell did not comment in court following the verdict, but his legal team expressed plans to appeal the decision. Ryan Gardner, an attorney with the non-profit law firm First Liberty, which is representing Avell, argued that the pastor’s actions were motivated by compassion and the need to protect vulnerable individuals from dangerous winter conditions.
“No pastor in America, including Pastor Chris Avell, should be pronounced guilty for providing temporary shelter to those in desperate need,” Gardner said in a statement following the trial. “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.”
Despite these claims, the City of Bryan has stood by its enforcement of safety regulations. Mayor Carrie Schlade issued a statement following the ruling, reiterating the city’s commitment to upholding public safety standards. She emphasized that while the city supports efforts to address homelessness, public safety must remain a priority.
“The city remains committed to addressing homelessness within the community and continues to collaborate with appropriate agencies,” Schlade’s statement read. “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 mayor also clarified that while Dad’s Place is able to operate as a church, it must cease any residential operations unless it submits the proper building and code applications and receives state approval.
“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,” Schlade added.
The case has sparked debate over the balance between safety regulations and the needs of the homeless, with some advocates criticizing the ruling as an obstacle to providing emergency shelter in dire situations. However, city officials maintain that following fire codes and ensuring safety are essential, regardless of the circumstances.