Flamboyant priest who was already in jail for theft is robbed during online mass: “One million dollars in jewelry stolen” | Abroad

The 44-year-old priest was preaching in his Brooklyn church when three thieves suddenly burst into the door. The men showed their guns and ordered Miller-Whitehead and his wife to hand over their jewelry while the service was streamed online. The footage shows Miller-Whitehead falling to his knees with his hands in the air. Moments later, an armed man with a black hood and a mask appears.

In a video message that the American priest posted on Instagram shortly after the incident, he tells how the robbers pulled a chain from his neck. “There were also women and children in the church,” Miller-Whitehead said. “One of the men went to my wife and stole all her jewelry while pointing his gun at my 8-month-old daughter’s face.”

After the robbery, the thieves make a run for it. No one was injured. According to police, jewelry worth a total of $1 million was stolen.

Miller-Whitehead founded the religious community “Leaders of Tomorrow International Ministries” in 2013. The priest had previously spent five years in prison for identity forgery and major theft. Miller-Whitehead himself claims that he was falsely accused.

The American is now best known for his luxurious lifestyle. For example, the priest drives a Rolce Royce and is only too happy to show off his expensive jewelry. However, according to him, the robbery is not due to his extravagance. “I am going to continue to live as God has in mind for me,” it sounds. “It is my privilege to buy what I want to buy.” Miller-Whitehead offered a $50,000 reward Monday for anyone who can share crucial information about the thieves.

The priest is also good friends with New York City Mayor Eric Adams. “No one in this city should be the victim of armed robbery, especially not us religious leaders and believers praying in a house of God,” Adams said in a statement. “The police are investigating this crime and will work tirelessly to bring the criminals involved to justice,” it said.