A federal jury in the United States has convicted a Louisiana pastor of stealing more than $340,000 from two churches and using the money to finance his gambling habit and other personal expenses.
The pastor, Dale Sanders, 56, was found guilty on 25 federal counts, including wire fraud, access device fraud, and obstruction of a federal investigation, following a five-day trial in the Eastern District of Louisiana.
According to prosecutors, Sanders served at Fifth African Baptist Church in New Orleans and Second New Guide Missionary Baptist Church in Metairie. Between April 2020 and April 2024, he unlawfully diverted church funds for his own benefit by transferring money from church bank accounts, making unauthorized purchases with church-issued debit cards, and receiving cash, goods, and services valued at more than $340,000.
Investigators said the stolen funds were used to cover personal expenses, including gambling, dining, and everyday living costs. Prosecutors also accused Sanders of submitting falsified records in response to a federal grand jury subpoena in an attempt to obstruct the investigation.
Following his indictment earlier this year, Sanders released a video on social media asking members of the public to pray for him and even urged supporters to pray for what he described as his “enemy.” He maintained that God was at work despite the legal proceedings.
Sanders, who also authored the book Strut Your Stutter, now faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, supervised release after serving any prison term, and other statutory penalties. His sentencing is scheduled for October 13, 2026.
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