Philly Man Stole $1.6M Meant For Clergy Members' Widows, Orphans: Feds

PHILADELPHIA — The executive director and treasurer of a non-profit fund in Philadelphia is accused of stealing more than $1.6 million in funds that were intended for widows and orphans of deceased clergy.

United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero said John A. Miller, 74, of Philadelphia, was arrested and charged by indictment on charges of wire fraud.

The indictment alleges that Miller, who served as executive director and treasurer of a non-profit fund in Philadelphia, used his position of trust to steal more than $1.6 million intended for widows and orphans of deceased clergy.

Authorities said from January 2015 to May 2022, Miller schemed to divert money from the fund to himself by, among other means, presenting false and fraudulent financial information to other fund executives and its outside auditors.

The indictment alleges that Miller then used this money to fund personal purchases for himself, including international cruises, vacations to the Caribbean, and a luxury condominium.

If convicted, Miller faces a maximum possible sentence of 60 years in prison.