Pastor Convicted Of Using More Than $340K In Church Funds On Gambling, Luxury Dining & Personal Expenses

Dale Sanders

Pastor Convicted Of Using More Than $340K In Church Funds On Gambling, Luxury Dining & Personal Expenses

A Louisiana pastor has been convicted after federal prosecutors said he stole more than $340,000 from two churches to fund his gambling habit and personal lifestyle.

Following a five-day trial, a jury found Dale Sanders, 56, guilty on 25 counts, including wire fraud, access device fraud and obstruction of a federal investigation. Prosecutors said Sanders misappropriated funds while serving as pastor of Fifth African Baptist Church in New Orleans and Second New Guide Missionary Baptist Church in Metairie between April 2020 and April 2024.

According to federal authorities, Sanders transferred money from church bank accounts into his own accounts, used church debit cards for unauthorized purchases, and spent the funds on gambling, dining, living expenses and other personal costs. Investigators also alleged he submitted falsified records during the federal probe.

After he was indicted earlier this year, Sanders posted a video on social media asking supporters to pray for his “enemy” while maintaining his faith throughout the case. He now faces up to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, supervised release and other penalties. His sentencing is scheduled for October 13.