In 2020, Rev. Randolph “Randy” Brown, 64, who worked at a youth center as a chaplain, was arrested for crimes related to human trafficking. The Ohio-based pastor was charged with multiple felonies. He was arrested with Joyce Richmond, 21, in relation to the alleged exploitation of several teenagers. He worked at Inner-City Missionary Baptist Church but was placed on administrative leave after the arrest. While he was convicted, he only served a short stint in prison.
He was accused of trafficking three minors between March and October of 2018. “Indictments of coordinated operations like this don’t happen accidentally,” said Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost. “It’s the great work of our task force and partners in law enforcement, as well as [the] prosecutor’s office, who will now ensure that these traffickers stay behind bars.”
“The allegations in this case are particularly troubling given Mr. Brown’s role as a spiritual leader in the community,” said Homeland Security Special Investigation Agent Vance Callander. “This investigation should, however, make clear that traffickers will be held accountable, regardless of the positions they occupy.” Not only did law enforcement chime in, but so did Brown’s church.
“The Inner-City Missionary Baptist Church has been stunned, hurt, and rocked by allegations filed against Pastor Randy Brown,” they wrote in a statement. “These allegations are very serious and deeply disturbing. If the allegations of compelling prostitution of a minor are true, it would be a tragic betrayal of our standards.” They said they had not been contacted by police but supported the investigation.
“The Church has great faith in the judicial system to determine the truth of these claims. Nevertheless, the Church takes seriously its responsibility to hold its members accountable for their conduct with respect of the laws of God and Man,” they added. “The members of Inner-City Missionary Baptist Church would appreciate if we can be allowed time to heal as we go through this hurtful and painful situation. Thank you, and please respect our privacy at this time,” the church concluded.
The disgraced pastor was sentenced to 18 months behind bars but was released after only 8 days in custody. The judge cited concerns over Covid-19. Police were unhappy that the pastor was released so quickly. “I’m sure there’s some victims that would see that as a deterrent,” Jim Mackey, a police officer, said. “Several defendants in other cases that have referenced this case saying, ‘Hey, look, here’s a guy that had sex with two kids and only got 18 months.’”
“There are individuals in those professions that take advantage of some of our most vulnerable individuals in our community, as did Randy Brown,” said Mackey. “He took advantage of people that were down and out when he should have been a person that somebody could turn to for help. Not to ruin their life.” The prosecutor echoed these sentiments.
Watch Brown’s Sentencing Here:
“During the sentencing hearing, the State was asked our position on whether the defendants could report to prison at a later date. We objected and both defendants were remanded. Eight days later, the same question was asked. We again objected. No hearing was held, and the defendants were apparently released,” the prosecutor said. “We disagree with this decision.”
Featured Image From Embedded Video