Bethel Church Selects Third-Party Firm to Investigate Abuse Allegations Against Leader Ben Armstrong

Bethel Church has selected Sintra Group Professional Investigations to examine allegations of clergy abuse against its leader, Ben Armstrong. The decision was announced in a recent update to the church’s website, following months of silence after the initial accusations surfaced earlier this year.

The chosen firm, based in Ventura, California, is described by the church as having over two decades of investigative experience, including trauma-informed protocols. However, its website does not specify experience with religious institutions or clergy abuse cases, listing instead services provided to government agencies, law firms, and school districts.

Ben Armstrong, who oversees Prophetic Ministry at Bethel, was placed on administrative leave after allegations emerged that he sexually abused and groomed former students at the Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry. The church released several statements in the early weeks of the allegations but remained quiet for over a month before disclosing the investigative firm’s selection.

It remains unclear whether Sintra Group has prior experience investigating clergy abuse or religious organizations. The firm’s investigators are primarily former law enforcement or fire service officers, with its principal investigator, Steve Bowman, having previously served as an assistant police chief in Ventura.

Bethel has not provided details about the selection process, funding, or the firm’s experience with similar cases. Sintra Group has also not responded to inquiries regarding its background in clergy abuse investigations or the expected timeline for the process.

In addition to the investigation, Bethel stated it is hiring a third-party expert to review its governance, leadership structure, and culture. It is uncertain whether this review is conducted by Sintra Group or another separate entity.

The church’s response has raised questions about transparency and accountability, particularly in light of the allegations involving its leadership. As the investigation proceeds, the community and stakeholders await further clarification on the steps being taken to address these concerns.

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