Brooklyn preacher Bishop Lamor Miller-Whitehead, known for his opulent lifestyle and connections, has been found guilty by a jury on multiple charges.
Advertisement
On Monday, March 11 2024, the 47-year-old was convicted of wire fraud, attempted extortion, and lying to the FBI.
The case against Miller-Whitehead centered on allegations of exploiting a parishioner’s retirement funds and attempting to extort money from a businessman to sustain his lavish lifestyle.
Despite plans for an appeal, his sentencing is scheduled for July, 2024.
Miller-Whitehead gained notoriety in 2022 when he was robbed at gunpoint during a sermon at the Leaders of Tomorrow International Churches in Canarsie, Brooklyn, losing $1 million worth of jewelry.
Following arrests in the case, Miller-Whitehead vehemently denied involvement, asserting that the incident had tarnished his reputation.
Advertisement
However, the bishop’s legal woes deepened later that year with an indictment alleging financial misconduct. Court documents revealed accusations of persuading a parishioner to invest $90,000 from her retirement savings, which Miller-Whitehead purportedly misappropriated for personal use.
Additionally, he was accused of attempting to extort $5,000 from a businessman and securing a further half a million, promising governmental favors he couldn’t deliver.
Miller-Whitehead’s attorney argued his innocence, portraying him as a victim of targeting. This conviction isn’t his first brush with the law; he was previously found guilty of 17 counts of fraud in 2008.
Despite his legal troubles, Miller-Whitehead’s ties to prominent figures, including Mayor Eric Adams, have drawn attention. Adams, who once described Miller-Whitehead as a mentor and friend, emphasized the importance of supporting individuals who have faced adversity.
As Miller-Whitehead faces the consequences of his actions, his conviction highlights the complexities surrounding faith, influence, and accountability in religious communities.
Leave a Reply