Louisiana Pastor Convicted of Defrauding Churches for Gambling Funds
A pastor in Kenner, Louisiana, Dale Sanders, has been convicted of defrauding two churches of over $340,000 to fund his gambling habits and personal expenses. He was found guilty of wire fraud, access device fraud, and obstruction of a federal…
Portland, OR, July 23, 2026 —
Kenner, Louisiana – Dale Sanders, a pastor formerly affiliated with two churches in this area, has been convicted of defrauding these congregations of more than $340,000. The funds were reportedly used to finance his personal expenditures and gambling activities.
Sanders was found guilty on multiple charges, including wire fraud, access device fraud, and obstruction of a federal investigation. The conviction follows an investigation into financial discrepancies within the churches he served.
The specific details of the fraud indicate that over $340,000 was misappropriated. This amount was allegedly siphoned from the church accounts to cover personal expenses and sustain a gambling habit, according to the prosecution.
The charges of wire fraud and access device fraud relate to the methods used to conduct the alleged transactions. The obstruction charge stems from Sanders’ actions during the federal investigation into the missing funds.
Details regarding the timeline of the fraudulent activities and the specific churches involved were not fully elaborated in the information provided. Further proceedings are expected to outline the full scope of the financial crimes and determine the subsequent legal actions.
Story summarized from the original created by Geoff Herbert on www.oregonlive.com, see more information here.
