A federal jury in the United States has convicted a Louisiana pastor of stealing more than $340,000 from church accounts to finance gambling, dining and other personal expenses.
Dale Sanders, 56, who served as pastor of two Baptist churches in Louisiana, was found guilty after a five-day jury trial on multiple federal charges, including wire fraud, access device fraud, and obstruction of a federal investigation.
According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana, The pastor Sanders illegally diverted church funds over a four-year period while serving in leadership positions within the congregations.
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For more information about federal prosecutions, visit the U.S. Department of Justice.
Convicted on 25 federal counts
A federal jury found Sanders guilty on a 25-count indictment after prosecutors presented evidence showing he misused church finances for personal benefit.
The charges included:
- Wire fraud
- Access device fraud
- Obstruction of a federal investigation
The conviction followed several days of testimony and financial evidence presented during the trial.
More than $340,000 diverted
Federal prosecutors said the pastor Sanders stole over $340,000 between April 2020 and April 2024.
According to investigators, the pastor transferred money from church bank accounts into accounts under his personal control.
Authorities alleged the funds were then used to cover:
- Gambling expenses
- Restaurant bills
- Living expenses
- Other personal purchases
They also stated that he used a church-issued debit card to conduct unauthorized personal transactions.
Served at two churches
According to prosecutors, Sanders served as pastor at:
- Fifth African Baptist Church in New Orleans
- Second New Guide Missionary Baptist Church in Metairie
During his ministry, he remained active on social media, where he frequently shared sermons, worship services and inspirational messages.
Accused of obstructing investigators
In addition to the financial crimes, prosecutors said Sanders attempted to interfere with the federal investigation.
Authorities alleged he submitted a falsified document in response to a grand jury subpoena seeking financial records.
This allegation formed part of the obstruction charge for which he was also convicted.
Asked supporters to pray after indictment
Shortly after he was indicted in April, Pastor Sanders posted a video on social media addressing members of his congregation.
Rather than discussing the allegations directly, he encouraged supporters to pray for what he described as his “enemy.”
In the video, he thanked church members for their prayers and urged them to pray for those who had allegedly spoken against him, referencing Matthew 5:44.
The video attracted significant public attention after details of the federal case became widely known.
Author and public speaker
Beyond his pastoral work, Sanders also authored a motivational book titled “Strut Your Stutter.”
The book encourages readers to embrace their uniqueness and remain confident despite personal challenges.
He was also known for posting motivational content and church messages across his social media platforms.
Faces lengthy prison sentence
Following the conviction, Sanders now faces significant federal penalties.
According to prosecutors, he could receive:
- Up to 20 years in federal prison
- A fine of up to $250,000
- Up to three years of supervised release
- Mandatory restitution if ordered by the court
- A $100 special assessment for each count of conviction
His sentencing has been scheduled for October 13, when a federal judge will determine the final punishment.
Case highlights importance of financial accountability
The case has drawn attention to the importance of financial transparency and accountability within religious organizations.
Many churches rely heavily on donations from members, making proper financial oversight essential to maintaining public trust.
While the conviction concludes the criminal trial, the court will determine the appropriate sentence during the October hearing.
The verdict serves as a reminder that allegations of financial misconduct involving charitable or religious institutions can carry serious legal consequences under federal law.
