A former Lifeway executive faces 22 criminal charges following allegations that he diverted ministry funds for personal use. Tennessee authorities arrested Giancarlo Montemayor-Trejo on Oct. 20 after a Williamson County grand jury indicted him Oct. 7.
The charges include felony theft, forgery, computer offenses and criminal simulation. Authorities set his bond at $250,000, and he remained in custody as of Oct. 21.
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation began examining the alleged misconduct in October 2025 at the district attorney’s request.
Investigators Detail Alleged Financial Misconduct
Investigators accuse Montemayor-Trejo of submitting fraudulent contacts to obtain referral fees while working for Lifeway Christian Resources. They also allege he distributed complimentary Bibles and subsequently requested payments to his personal account.
Additionally, investigators claim he charged personal expenses and travel to his employer’s credit card.
Lifeway discovered the alleged financial misconduct in May 2025 and launched an internal investigation. The organization identified serious violations of its financial and ethical policies before contacting law enforcement.
Lifeway Strengthens Financial Oversight
Lifeway chairman James Carroll expressed disappointment that a trusted leader allegedly misappropriated ministry funds. He praised organizational leadership for terminating the employee, investigating the allegations and consulting trustees.
Lifeway spokesperson Carol Pipes said independent auditors determined the misconduct was an isolated incident. Leadership is implementing stronger expense reporting procedures, procurement oversight and employee training.
The organization continues reviewing financial practices and cooperating with investigators.
Former Executive’s Publishing Career
Montemayor-Trejo joined Lifeway in September 2018, overseeing Spanish-language publishing acquisitions and production. He advanced into director-level positions in 2021 and eventually led Global Ministry.
His work included B&H Español and a devotional Bible featuring contributions from Hispanic women across Latin America.
In June 2026, Penguin Random House hired him as director of sales for the Christian market.
Allegations Raise Questions About Financial Accountability
Lifeway’s leadership maintains that its internal investigation and improved financial controls demonstrate its response to the alleged misconduct. Trustees have received updates and participated in organizational decisions.
The criminal allegations raise concerns about financial accountability and oversight within Christian publishing organizations. However, investigators have presented accusations, not proof of guilt.
The TBI emphasizes that Montemayor-Trejo retains the presumption of innocence and that prosecutors must prove the charges beyond a reasonable doubt.
Source: Former Lifeway executive charged with theft, forgery after financial misconduct allegations
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