Brooklyn Bishop Lamor Whitehead sentenced to 9 years in prison

NYC's ‘Bling Bishop’ Lamor Whitehead sentenced to 9 years in prison for multiple scamsPhoto bydailynews.com

Brooklyn bishop Lamor Whitehead, known for his flamboyant style and previously a victim of robbery during a sermon, has been sentenced to nine years in prison for fraud and extortion charges unrelated to the robbery incident, announced U.S. Attorney Damian Williams on Monday.

According to prosecutors, Whitehead misappropriated approximately $90,000 from a parishioner's retirement savings under false pretenses of assisting her with purchasing a home. Williams described Whitehead as a "career conman" who financed his lavish lifestyle through fraudulent activities spanning over two decades.

The funds taken from the parishioner were reportedly spent on luxury items and personal expenses, leaving her in financial ruin with significant penalties and legal fees. Despite the verdict, Whitehead's attorney, Dawn Florio, asserted his innocence and vowed to pursue all legal avenues for an appeal.

In addition to this case, Whitehead was found guilty of other schemes dating back to 2017, including falsifying documents to secure a $250,000 business loan and extorting $5,000 from a businessman under false promises linked to Mayor Eric Adams. Prosecutors highlighted Whitehead's lack of remorse throughout the legal proceedings.

Following his prison term, Whitehead will undergo three years of supervised release and is required to pay $85,000 in restitution while forfeiting $95,000. Court records reveal Whitehead has faced multiple charges over the years, including allegations of bribery and identity theft related to luxury vehicle purchases.

Whitehead made headlines in 2022 when he was robbed at gunpoint during a livestreamed church service, where thieves reportedly stole jewelry valued at $1 million. One suspect in the robbery was later killed by law enforcement in New Jersey.

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