Witnesses: Pastor accused of embezzlement resisted audit | News

GRAND RAPIDS (WZZM) - Church leaders say the Grand Rapids pastor accused of embezzling thousands of dollars warned them not to demand an audit.

Reverend Arthur Pearson Sr. is accused of stealing up to $100,00 from Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church.  Pearson's preliminary exam in Grand Rapids District Court began Friday.

During his three years as pastor, investigators say Reverend Pearson gave himself bonuses and spent the church's money on vacations, cosmetics, lingerie, dental care, furniture and appliances -- all without approval.

When confronted, church leaders say the pastor refused to surrender bank records and credit card statements.

"Pastor Pearson was vehemently against an audit," church board of trustees chairman Stephon Blackwell said on the witness stand Friday.

"Totally against having an audit," agreed church board of deacons chairman Nathan Mayfield Sr. "He wanted to forget about what happened and start over fresh."

The judge will hear more testimony before deciding if Reverend Pearson will stand trial on the embezzlement charges.

Although church leaders are not allowing him any involvement in financial matters, the congregation at Pilgrim Rest has welcomed Pastor Pearson back to preach the Sunday sermon.