A flashy Brooklyn pastor known as the 'Bling Bishop' has been sentenced to nine years in prison after being convicted of financial fraud schemes, including using a parishioner's retirement savings and attempting to extort a businessman. The 45-year-old pastor, Lamor Whitehead, was found guilty of two counts of wire fraud, attempted wire fraud, attempted extortion, and making false statements to federal law enforcement agents.
Whitehead, who was a pastor at the Leaders of Tomorrow International Ministries in Brooklyn, was also ordered to pay $85,000 in restitution and forfeit $95,000. The US Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Damian Williams, described Whitehead as a 'con man' who stole millions of dollars through various fraudulent activities.
Prosecutors revealed that Whitehead convinced a parishioner to invest $90,000 of her retirement savings with him under the guise of helping her buy a home, but instead, he spent the money on luxury goods and personal expenses. Additionally, Whitehead extorted a businessman for $5,000 and attempted to secure a $500,000 loan and a stake in real estate transactions by falsely promising favorable actions from the New York City government.
Whitehead's fraudulent activities extended to submitting fake business loan applications with altered bank statements, claiming he had millions in the bank and substantial monthly revenue. He had also made false statements to FBI agents during a search warrant execution at his New Jersey mansion.
Despite his flashy lifestyle, which included Louis Vuitton suits and extravagant jewelry, Whitehead's schemes have now come to an end with his sentencing. His attorneys have indicated plans to appeal the verdict.
The case highlights the importance of holding individuals accountable for abusing positions of trust and engaging in financial fraud. Whitehead's actions have not only led to his imprisonment but also serve as a cautionary tale against fraudulent schemes and exploitation of others for personal gain.
