Two were arrested after pastor robbed of $1m jewels during the sermon. A third suspect is still on the run.
In June, Lamor Miller-Whitehead was giving a live-streamed sermon at the Leaders of Tomorrow church in Brooklyn, New York. This is where the alleged event took place.
Juwan Anderson and Say-Quan Pollack have been arrested, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of New York.
Miller-Whitehead, who is called a bishop, said that a raider with a gun took his bishop's ringand chain, his wedding ring, and the chains he was wearing under his clerical robe.
Members of the church could watch the service life, but the raid is no longer on the church's website.
New York bishop robbed of over $1m worth of jewellery during livestreamed sermon
In a press release, the Attorney's Office said, “As alleged in the indictment and court filings, Anderson, Pollack, and a co-conspirator— masked and clad all in black— entered the church brandishing firearms, while parishioners attended church services in person and via a live-stream.
“„The lead pastor dove to the floor, while his wife shielded their infant daughter who was sitting on her lap. Pollack stood guard at the doorway, pointing a firearm in the direction of the parishioners and the pulpit.- Attorney's Office
Media reports say that Bishop Lamor Whitehead and his wife were robbed while they were live streaming a sermon. Three people with guns are said to have gone into the Leaders of Tomorrow International Ministries church in the Canarsie neighborhood and demanded jewelry. It was said that about 20 to 25 people went to the service. There were no reports of injuries.
Said Breon Peace, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York:
“„As alleged, the defendants brought guns into a place of worship, stealing from two members of the clergy, and terrifying the congregation in the process. I commend the Special Agents and Detectives for their outstanding efforts in identifying the perpetrators who committed a crime that shocks the conscience for its brazenness. This Office will always work with our law enforcement partners to protect our houses of worship, prosecute those who engage in gun violence and and ensure the safety of all members of our community.- Breon Peace
More From The Release
The charges in the indictment are just accusations, and the defendants are thought to be innocent until they are shown to be guilty. If found guilty, each defendant could get as long as life in prison.
The Office's General Crimes Section is in charge of the case for the government. The case is being brought to court by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rebecca M. Schuman.