Bishop Lamor Whitehead and his wife were robbed by three men at gunpoint inside their Brooklyn church more than two months ago. Authorities have made headway in solving the crime despite Whitehead being the subject of controversy, including claims of parishioner funds stealing and accusations that he choked a parishioner in the same church.
According to an unsealed indictment, two of the men implicated have been charged while the third is still at large. According to a statement issued by the Eastern District of New York U.S. Attorney’s Office on Wednesday (Sept. 28), Juwan Anderson, 23, and Say-Quan Pollack, 23, were both taken into custody by the police. On Instagram and in a statement to the New York Daily News, Whitehead responded to the news.
Both men were arraigned this afternoon. Prosecutors have charged Juwan and Say-Quan with several counts related to armed robbery.
“As alleged, the defendants brought guns into a place of worship, stealing from two members of the clergy, and terrifying the congregation in the process,” D.A. Breon Peace said. “I commend the Special Agents and Detectives for their outstanding efforts in identifying the perpetrators who committed a crime that shocks the conscience for its brazenness. This Office will always work with our law enforcement partners to protect our houses of worship, prosecute those who engage in gun violence and ensure the safety of all members of our community.”
At the Leaders of Tomorrow International Ministries in Canarsie on July 24, Bishop Lamor Whitehead was midway through a sermon. The service was then abruptly stopped at 11:14 a.m. by three armed men who broke down the door. The parishioners, Bishop Lamor Whitehead’s wife Asia K. DosReis-Whitehead, and the criminals allegedly had their jewelry stolen. The incident was recorded by the church’s live stream.
“I’m extremely happy,” Bishop Lamor Whitehead told New York Daily News. “My wife was crying when she heard the news. We’re waiting for the last one to be arrested so we can move on with our life.”