Louisiana Pastor Spent $340,000 of Church Funds on Gambling

Louisiana pastor Dale Sanders faces 25 federal charges for embezzling over $340,000 from his churches' funds for gambling at casinos. Dale Sanders, who served at both churches in the New Orleans area, was arrested following allegations of using church funds for personal needs.

Charges and Sentence

Sanders is charged with wire fraud, access device fraud, and obstruction of a federal investigation. He was found guilty on July 17, after the fifth day of a trial in New Orleans.

Personal Enrichment

According to court documents, Sanders secretly obtained a Capital One debit card in the name of Second New Guide Missionary Baptist Church without the board’s knowledge and used it for personal needs from April 2020 to April 2024. When funds ran low, he transferred money from his other church, Fifth African Baptist Church, to cover the shortfall.

Attempts to Conceal

Furthermore, Sanders attempted to cover his tracks when the FBI investigation commenced. He responded to a subpoena from a federal grand jury with a forged statement, trying to create the appearance that he had donated the money back to the church in 2023.

Social Media and Subsequent Proceedings

After charges were filed, Sanders actively used social media, urging support through prayers and asking his followers to pray for those pursuing him. Known for his sermons and having authored a self-help book, he encouraged his followers to pray for their "enemies," hoping for divine intervention. However, the federal jury's ruling was not in his favor.

He now faces a potential punishment of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or double the amount of financial gain, along with three years of supervised release. U.S. District Judge Brandon C. Long has set the sentencing for October 13.