In the heart of Brooklyn, a preacher known for his opulent lifestyle and connections to high-profile figures, including Mayor Eric Adams, has been found guilty on several counts. Bishop Lamor Miller-Whitehead, who often flaunted his wealth and boasted about his influential friendships, faced a jury’s verdict on Monday, convicting him of wire fraud, attempted extortion, and providing false statements to the FBI.
At 47, Miller-Whitehead was accused of misappropriating a parishioner’s retirement funds and attempting to extort a businessman, all to support his extravagant way of living. Despite the conviction, his legal representation has announced plans to appeal the decision, with sentencing scheduled for July.
Miller-Whitehead first captured public attention in 2022 when he was robbed at gunpoint during a live-streamed sermon at Leaders of Tomorrow International Churches in Canarsie, Brooklyn. The robbers made away with jewelry valued at approximately $1 million, belonging to both the bishop and his wife.
Following the incident, police apprehended Juwan Anderson and Say-Quan Pollack, charging them with robbery, conspiracy, and weapons offenses. “It’s a win today, because the narrative that was posted and presented that I had something to do with this robbery, and it has destroyed my life,” Miller-Whitehead stated after the arrests.
However, the bishop found himself under scrutiny again in December when he was indicted on charges of fraud and extortion. Court documents reveal that Miller-Whitehead allegedly persuaded a parishioner to invest $90,000 of her retirement savings with him, only to spend it on personal luxuries.
Furthermore, he is accused of extorting $5,000 from a businessman, subsequently convincing him to loan another half a million dollars and offer a stake in real estate transactions in return for municipal government favors—a promise Miller-Whitehead knew he could not fulfill. Despite pleading not guilty and being released on a $500,000 bond, the bishop’s attorney stated, “He feels that he is being targeted and being turned into a villain from a victim.”
Previously convicted on 17 counts of fraud in 2008, Miller-Whitehead has described Mayor Adams as both a mentor and a friend. In response to the bishop’s robbery in 2022, Adams expressed his commitment to mentoring, particularly to Black men who have faced challenges, including Miller-Whitehead.
This case has not only captivated the city but also raised questions about trust, influence, and accountability among those in positions of power and faith. As the legal process unfolds, many are left wondering about the implications for the community and the individuals involved.