Dale Sanders, a 56-year-old minister and author based in Kenner, Louisiana, was convicted following a five-day federal trial. He was found guilty on 25 counts, including wire fraud, access device fraud, and obstruction of a federal investigation, for stealing more than $340,000 from two congregations.
Evidence presented by the US Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana showed that between April 2020 and April 2024, Sanders siphoned funds from Fifth African Baptist Church in New Orleans and Second New Guide Missionary Baptist Church in Metairie. The pastor used the stolen money to cover personal costs, such as high-end dining, living expenses, and gambling activities, often utilizing a church debit card for unauthorized transactions.
The investigation further revealed that Sanders attempted to hinder the legal process by providing a falsified document to a federal grand jury. Following his indictment, the author of Strut Your Stutter requested prayers from his congregation via social media, referring to his accusers as his enemies. Sanders now faces a potential 20-year prison sentence, a significant financial penalty, and supervised release. His sentencing hearing is set for October 13.
