A pastor in the United States, Dale Sanders has been declared guilty of stealing more than $340,000 from two churches to finance gambling and other personal expenses.
According to Punch, Sanders was convicted following a five-day trial before US District Judge Brandon S. Long, where the 56-year-old pastor was found guilty on 25 counts of wire fraud, access device fraud, and obstruction of a federal investigation.
According to the US Attorney’s Office, Sanders diverted church funds over several years while serving in a position of trust. Rather than using the money for church operations and ministry activities, he spent it on gambling and personal expenditures, causing significant financial losses to the affected congregations.
The fraudulent activities were uncovered during a financial review, prompting an investigation that revealed unauthorized withdrawals and misuse of church finances.
Following his conviction, Sanders now awaits sentencing. Prosecutors said he faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss resulting from the offence, up to three years of supervised release after imprisonment, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee for each count.
By Musekir Faisat Omolara
