Jason Christy, evangelical publisher, arrested for DUI, fraud

PHOENIX (ABP) -- Jason Christy, the charismatic Christian publisher accused of defrauding Christian businesses and churches, was arrested Jan. 14 on charges of driving under the influence, four counts of issuing bad checks, and violating a promise to appear in court.

Authorities released Christy Jan. 25 on court order, a spokesperson for the Maricopa County Jail said. His next court date is scheduled for Feb. 27.

Christy had been tapped to lead the powerful Christian Coalition, a 1.2 million-member national lobbying group, until the coalition's leaders learned of his history of legal and financial problems.

Former associates and customers of Christy's Christian magazines and other endeavors have filed at least 10 lawsuits against him, and others have won court-issued restraining or protection orders against the Scottsdale, Ariz., businessman.

In an August 2007 interview, Christy denied all the charges in the lawsuits, saying his foes are spreading lies about him because of soured business relationships.

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Rising evangelical star Jason Christy leaves trail of fraud, associates say (8/01/2007)