Buckeye Youth Minister Held in Voyeurism Case

Arizona Republic
August 8, 2016

http://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/southwest-valley/2016/08/08/buckeye-youth-pastor-held-voyeurism-case/88409294/

Christopher David Santos

A minister at Grace Fellowship Church in Buckeye was held on suspicion of voyeurism and unlawful recording after a mother demanded the cellphone from a man bending down in front of her daughter's changing room at a local store, according to court documents.

The mother said she observed a man holding a cellphone under the door of a changing room her daughter was using at the Bealls Outlet Store near Watson and Yuma roads. She confronted the man, asking him to give her his phone. The woman saw video footage of the girl on the phone, according to court documents.

A Buckeye police officer took possession of the phone after he was called to the store about 10:45 a.m. Saturday, documents said.

Christopher David Santos, 31, admitted to officers that he activated the recording feature and put his cellphone under the changing-room door and planned to view the footage for his sexual stimulation, according to court documents.

Santos listed his employer as Grace Fellowship Church, saying he had worked there three years, documents said.

Jon Brecke, senior pastor, issued a statement Monday on behalf of the church.

"As a church we are shocked and disheartened over the news and allegations of our youth pastor. We do not condone his behavior and are beyond saddened first and foremost for the victim. We also hurt for his family, the youth and parents, and all the people who attend our church. We hope for truth and justice in this situation. Above all, we pray Jesus will redeem this hurt and bring healing to all lives and Chris’ life also.

"Chris has been placed on administrative leave and not allowed to be on campus."

Bond for Santos was set at $7,500 in his initial appearance in Maricopa County Superior Court. His next court appearance is scheduled for Aug. 15.