Dear everyone

From  Flying Free

Dear everyone: Civics 101
Rule one - you don't need your pastor's or your elder's permission to report a crime to the proper authorities.

Rule two - this rule applies even when the crime takes place on church property.

Rule three - rule one applies even when the perpetrator is a member, volunteer, staff, or pastor of your church.

Rule four - Rule one applies even if the criminal is your spouse.

Rule five - rule one applies even if you haven't "followed the steps of Matthew 18." Matthew 18 isn't about criminal activity.

When crimes are committed, it is never a violation of mercy or biblical law to report those crimes to the proper authorities.

Hope this is helpful.
P.S. - anyone who tells you otherwise most likely has something to hide. When that is the case, remember what Paul said:
Romans 13:3-4
For rulers are not a cause of fear for good behavior, but for evil. Do you want to have no fear of authority? Do what is good, and you will have praise from the same; for it is a minister of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a minister of God, an avenger who brings wrath upon the one who practices evil.

If your church leaders are afraid of the state, maybe it is time to ask why...