Pastor and Wife Charged with Misuse of Church Funds

Pastor Barry Spears and his wife, Jeri Spears, have been charged with misusing church funds, according to Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott. The couple was arrested following an investigation into financial misconduct at SonRise Baptist Church in Columbia, South Carolina.

Barry Spears faces charges of first-degree violations of the Computer Crime Act, forgery involving $10,000 or more, and breach of trust with fraudulent intent. Jeri Spears is charged with obtaining goods under pretenses involving $10,000 or more. The couple turned themselves in and were taken into custody at the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center.

Barry Spears was removed as pastor from SonRise Baptist Church in May 2025. The investigation was initiated on June 9, 2025, after a complainant reported to the Richland County Sheriff’s Department that the pastor was misusing collection funds. The complainant alleged that Spears was using donations intended for the church to cover personal expenses.

Further investigation revealed that Spears and his wife stole over $200,000 from the church. The funds were used for personal items, including a motorcycle, BMW payments, vehicle insurance, and other unapproved expenses. Receipts and documentation show the misuse of church funds began as early as 2018.

The charges highlight a breach of trust and a failure in financial accountability within the church. The case underscores the importance of transparency and ethical stewardship in religious institutions. The misuse of funds for personal gain undermines the integrity of the organization and the trust placed in its leadership.

The incident serves as a reminder of the need for accountability and honest dealing, as emphasized in Scripture. The couple’s actions demonstrate a departure from the principles of justice, mercy, and humble service that should guide those in positions of leadership.

Source: Read the original report