Man pleads guilty to stealing nearly $1 million from Church of God

Prosecutors say a former communications director swindled $100,000 while working at the Church of God international headquarters, seen here in Cleveland, Tenn.
Prosecutors say a former communications director swindled $100,000 while working at the Church of God international headquarters, seen here in Cleveland, Tenn.
photo The Church of God International Headquarters in Cleveland

Troy Scot Carter pleaded guilty today to stealing nearly $1 million from the Church of God's international headquarters in Cleveland, Tenn.

In his plea agreement Carter, a former communications director for the church, admits to defrauding the church of about $890,000 by creating false invoices claiming his personal company had done work it had not in fact completed, pocketing hotel rebates and requesting refunds from companies who performed services for the church.

Carter and Assistant U.S. Attorney James Brooks agreed to a plea deal in which Carter would serve up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release, a $100 fine, as well as forfeiture and restitution.

Members of the Church of God Executive Committee released a statement today, saying they expected to recoup much of the stolen funds through an insurance policy that protects against fraud. The committee also said the church has added extra safeguards to protect it from such fraud in the future.

"We want our constituents to know that their donated monies are safe and being used properly for their intended works," the church's statement said.

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