Kenner Pastor Convicted of Stealing $340K from Two Louisiana Churches to Fund Gambling Habit

KENNER, La. - A Kenner pastor is facing up to 20 years in prison after a jury convicted him of siphoning more than $340,000 from two Louisiana churches to bankroll his gambling and personal spending.

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Dale Sanders, 56, was found guilty on 25 counts, including wire fraud, access device fraud, and obstruction of justice, following a five-day trial, the U.S. Attorney's Office announced.

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What Prosecutors Say Sanders Did: Four Years of Church Fund Theft

Prosecutors say Sanders funneled church funds into accounts he personally controlled over a four-year period from April 2020 to April 2024, and also used a church debit card to cover personal purchases. The stolen money reportedly went toward gambling, food, and everyday living expenses.

Sanders Led Two Congregations While Allegedly Stealing from Both

At the time, Sanders led two congregations: Fifth African Baptist Church in New Orleans and Second New Guide Missionary Baptist Church in Metairie.

Investigators also say Sanders tried to derail the investigators' probe by submitting a forged document in response to a grand jury subpoena.

Sentencing: October 13, Up to 20 Years and a $250,000 Fine

Sanders is scheduled to be sentenced Oct. 13. He faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine as high as $250,000.