Former LA Christian Science Church Chairman Accused Of Embezzling $11.4 Million

Charles Thomas Sebesta, former chairman of the Fifth Church of Christ, Scientist in Los Angeles, has been indicted on multiple charges of financial misconduct. The 54-year-old Huntington Beach resident was arrested on Monday and faces six counts of wire fraud, five counts of bank fraud, and two counts of identity theft. Prosecutors allege that Sebesta embezzled approximately $11.4 million from the church between 2006 and 2016.

Sebesta was hired as a facilities manager in 2001 and promoted to chairman in 2005, giving him control over the church’s financial accounts. During this time, he allegedly funneled money out of church accounts by writing checks to fictitious companies under his name and those of family members. Prosecutors say he used the stolen funds to purchase a home and gain access to Disneyland’s exclusive dining club.

In 2008, when the church’s historic Hollywood building was sold for $12.8 million, Sebesta siphoned a significant portion of the proceeds. He used $2 million in cashier’s checks to buy a property on Hollywood Boulevard, which is now occupied by the Mosaic Church. The property was later designated a culturally historical monument by the Los Angeles City Council.

In 2009 and 2010, Sebesta transferred $2.16 million to his personal tax account to claim an IRS refund. He also embezzled $34,000 from a private high school where he worked. In 2014, he settled an embezzlement lawsuit for $869,000, brought by the nonprofit Lay Mission-Helpers, for which he served as director of development.

The case highlights the misuse of trust and the importance of accountability. Micah 6:8 calls for justice, mercy, and humility in service, a reminder of the ethical responsibilities that come with leadership.

Source: Read the original report