Who is Lamor Whitehead? Brooklyn ‘Bling Bishop’ Jailed for 9 Years Over Fraud Scandals

Lamor Whitehead is a name that resonates with both reverence and controversy. Born on April 30, 1978, in Brooklyn, New York, Whitehead rose to prominence as a charismatic pastor leading the Leaders of Tomorrow International Ministries. Known for his flamboyant lifestyle, he amassed a significant following, particularly on social media, where he boasted over 1.3 million Instagram followers. However, his career has been overshadowed by legal troubles, culminating in a federal prison sentence. This article delves into the life of Lamor Whitehead, exploring his rise, fall, and the events that led to his imprisonment.

Early Life and Education

Growing Up in Brooklyn

Lamor Whitehead was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, by his mother, Faith Whitehead. He publicly claimed to be a descendant of Arthur Miller Jr., a claim disputed by Miller’s surviving family. Despite these familial controversies, Whitehead’s early life was marked by ambition and a drive to succeed.

Academic Pursuits and Early Career

After completing high school, Whitehead received athletic scholarship offers from Shaw University and Farmingdale University. He chose to study accounting and videography at Eastern New Mexico University. Upon returning to New York, he embarked on a career as a mortgage broker before turning to theological studies. Whitehead continued his education at the New York Theological Seminary and obtained a Ministry in Human Services certificate from the Theological Institution of Rising Hope Inc.

Ministry and Notoriety

Establishing Leaders of Tomorrow International Ministries

Whitehead founded the Leaders of Tomorrow International Ministries in Brooklyn, New York. His dynamic preaching style and focus on prosperity attracted a large congregation. He often appeared in luxury suits and drove a Rolls Royce, embodying the prosperity gospel he preached. His opulent lifestyle, combined with his charismatic persona, helped him gain a significant following.

Social Media Influence

Whitehead effectively used social media to expand his reach, particularly on Instagram, where he amassed over 1.3 million followers. His posts often showcased his luxurious lifestyle, reinforcing his public image as a successful and prosperous pastor. However, this notoriety also attracted scrutiny and criticism, particularly regarding the source of his wealth.

Legal Troubles

Initial Investigations and Arrest

Whitehead’s legal troubles began long before his most recent arrest. In 2004, Suffolk County police investigated identity theft complaints that eventually implicated Whitehead. He was linked to a scheme involving the fraudulent acquisition of over $2 million in loans and the purchase of luxury cars, victimizing more than 50 individuals. In 2008, he was convicted on multiple identity theft charges and served five years in Sing Sing Correctional Facility, being released in 2013.

Misuse of Retirement Savings and Extortion

In a more recent scandal, Whitehead was arrested by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York on charges including wire fraud, extortion, and making false statements. He convinced a parishioner to invest approximately $90,000 of her retirement savings, which he then spent on personal luxuries. Additionally, he extorted $5,000 from a businessman and attempted to secure a $500,000 loan from the same individual, falsely promising favorable actions from the New York City government.

Conviction and Sentencing

Trial and Verdict

Whitehead’s trial culminated in March 2024, when a jury found him guilty on five counts, including wire fraud, attempted extortion, and lying to the FBI. The charges stemmed from three separate schemes where he defrauded victims out of tens of thousands of dollars. The evidence against him was overwhelming, as noted by District Judge Lorna G. Schofield, who presided over the case.

Sentencing and Imprisonment

On June 17, 2024, Whitehead was sentenced to nine years in federal prison for his crimes. Judge Schofield emphasized his lack of remorse and the gravity of his offenses during the sentencing. His bail was revoked, and he has remained in custody since his arrest, with federal prosecutors successfully arguing for his detention due to the nature of his crimes.

Personal Life

Family and Marriage

Lamor Whitehead is married to Asia DosReis-Whitehead, a pastor and founder of the UaReAChampion Empowerment Network. The couple has three children: Jaidyn, Soriah, and Heaven Whitehead. Asia’s journey has been marked by resilience, particularly after being diagnosed with Guillain-Barre syndrome, a rare neurological disorder. Despite a bleak prognosis, she made a remarkable recovery, attributing her healing to her unwavering faith.

Public Image and Controversy

Despite his legal issues, Whitehead has maintained a significant public presence. His claims of lineage to Arthur Miller Jr. and his ostentatious lifestyle have kept him in the public eye, often attracting both admiration and criticism. His journey from a promising pastor to a convicted felon serves as a cautionary tale about the pitfalls of unchecked ambition and the importance of integrity in leadership.

Reflections on Whitehead’s Case

The Role of Accountability

Lamor Whitehead’s case underscores the critical importance of accountability in leadership positions. His actions, which ultimately led to his downfall, highlight the need for transparency and ethical conduct, particularly for those in positions of influence.

Lessons for the Faith Community

For the faith community, Whitehead’s story is a stark reminder of the potential consequences of placing leaders on pedestals without sufficient oversight. It calls for a renewed focus on the core values of faith, humility, and service, ensuring that leaders remain true to their mission of serving others rather than succumbing to personal greed.

Lamor Whitehead FAQs

Ques: Who is Lamor Whitehead’s wife?

Ans: Asia DosReis-Whitehead.

Ques: Who is Lamor Whitehead’s mother?

Ans: Faith Whitehead.

Ques: What is Lamor Whitehead’s age?

Ans: Whitehead is 46 years old.