A third-party is currently investigating Christian leader and radio host Michael Brown following accusations of improper behavior by a former employee.

According to the Christian Post, this investigation was sparked by claims that Brown engaged in non-consensual physical interactions with the staff member.

Michael Brown, the leader of the FIRE School of Ministry and host of a radio show, faces backlash after a former staffer, Erin, accused him of sexual misconduct. Erin claims he engaged in inappropriate physical contact, including slapping her buttocks, kissing her on the lips, and frequently holding her hand during her employment.

Erin reports that these incidents began shortly after she joined the ministry. She started working at FIRE School of Ministry, which Brown founded after leaving the Brownsville Revival School of Ministry in 2000. She left the ministry in 2002 at the age of 21, citing discomfort with Brown's actions as the reason for her departure.

Allegations Detail Unwanted Physical Advances

According to Erin, the disturbing behavior escalated over time. What started as supposed fatherly affection manifested into more personal and uncomfortable encounters, with Brown at one point routinely asking for kisses on the lips as a form of farewell. This, she stated, became a standard requirement every time she left his office.

Furthermore, while house-sitting for Brown on one occasion, Erin discovered a letter detailing an emotional affair between Brown and another woman. In the letter, the woman and Brown allegedly shared fantasies about each other, increasing Erin's discomfort and feelings of betrayal.

Erin has expressed that the encounters with Brown have deeply affected her ability to trust other ministry leaders, a statement that underscores the lasting impact these incidents have had on her personal and professional life.

Investigation Launched As Accusations Surface

In response to the burgeoning scandal, the Line of Fire Board acted quickly by contracting the services of Mitchell, Stein, Carey, and Chapman to carry out a neutral third-party investigation two weeks prior to the allegations becoming public. This move came as part of an effort to address the accusations transparently and justly.

Michael Brown has responded to the allegations by acknowledging a lapse in judgment in his dealings with Erin. However, he firmly denied that his actions were sexual or amorous. "What happened to biblical process?” Brown lamented, referencing the public nature of the accusations and his perceived rush to judgment without due religious procedural respect.

Brown also expressed deep remorse if his actions caused long-standing pain to Erin, offering his apologies and stating that he and his wife, Nancy, considered Erin as nearly a family member, which may have blurred the boundaries of their interactions.

Brown's Admittance and Public Reactions

Michael Brown, advocating for a private reconciliation and healing, suggested that the public handling of such sensitive allegations could undermine the potential for genuine resolution and restoration. "Both Nancy and I were shocked and horrified by the mix of accusations, allegations, false statements, and mischaracterizations," Brown explained, underscoring their immediate support for an investigation upon hearing the news.

Erin, supported by her sister, recalled instances where Brown's behavior was publicly justified as paternal rather than inappropriate. Despite the familial veneer, Erin and her sister now reflect on these actions with a critical eye, disturbed by the implications under the guise of fatherly affection.

The story, as it unfolds, remains under the scrutiny of both the public eye and the independent investigators working to uncover the truth behind the allegations. As the community awaits conclusive findings, the spotlight on Brown’s past and present actions grows increasingly intense, with outcomes likely to resonate through his reputation and his professional and spiritual leadership roles.

Ultimately, the heart of the issue lies in the uncomfortable juxtaposition of proclaimed spiritual fatherhood and the alleged misconduct, painting a complex picture of trust, authority, and accountability in religious communities. The results of the ongoing investigation are awaited with bated breath by all parties involved and the larger community following the case.