Flagler Beach Pastor Sentenced to 7.5 Years for Fraud and Theft

Wesley Brown, a former pastor at Calvary Chapel in Flagler Beach, was found guilty of defrauding investors through a complex scheme that exploited his position of trust within the church community. The jury convicted him on nearly two dozen charges of theft, fraud, and other swindles, revealing a pattern of deceit that extended across multiple states and involved several church members between 2010 and 2012.

Brown allegedly stole nearly half a million dollars from $1.2 million in investments entrusted to him, using the funds to enrich himself and his wife. Assistant State Attorney Tim Pribisco described the depth of the lies and the scheme to defraud individuals who had placed their faith and finances in Brown’s care. The prosecution emphasized the moral and financial betrayal of those who had trusted him as a spiritual leader.

During the sentencing hearing, Brown claimed innocence and remorse, yet shifted blame and expressed self-pity, while the prosecution portrayed him as a fraud even in his moments of remorse. Circuit Judge Dennis Craig sentenced Brown to seven and a half years in prison and 22 and a half years on probation, a decision that reflected the gravity of the offenses and the need for accountability.

Brown, 54, faces a lengthy probation period,

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