Bishop Lamor Whitehead Sentenced To 9 Years In Prison For Wire Fraud And Attempted Extortion

A Brooklyn bishop accused of stealing from one of his parishioners was sentenced to nine years in prison on Monday for multiple financial fraud crimes that netted him millions, federal prosecutors announced.

Bishop Lamor Miller-Whitehead, 46, was found guilty in March of wire fraud, attempted wire fraud, attempted extortion, and making false statements to federal law enforcement agents, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York.

Miller-Whitehead, who leads the Leaders of Tomorrow International Ministries church in Canarsie, gained attention in July 2022 when armed robbers stole $1 million worth of jewelry from him and his wife during a livestreamed service, police reported.

U.S. Attorney Damian Williams described the bishop as a “con man” who deceived his followers and authorities.

“Lamor Whitehead is a con man who stole millions of dollars in a series of financial frauds and even took from one of his own parishioners,” Williams stated. “He lied to federal agents and again to the Court at his trial. Today’s sentence puts an end to Whitehead’s schemes and reflects our commitment to holding those who abuse their positions accountable.”

Miller-Whitehead was also given three years of supervised release and ordered to pay $85,000 in restitution and forfeit $95,000, according to prosecutors.

Attorney Dawn Florio, in a statement on Monday, maintained Miller-Whitehead’s innocence and pledged to continue the legal battle.

“Today’s sentencing was not what we had hoped for, and we are deeply saddened by the outcome. Despite this setback, we remain firm in our belief in Bishop Lamor Miller Whitehead’s innocence and are committed to continuing the fight,” Florio said. “We will explore all available legal avenues to ensure that justice is served. Our dedication to proving Bishop Whitehead’s innocence is unwavering, and we will immediately begin the appeal process.”