A North Carolina pastor, Jeffrey Brian Merrow, has been arrested and charged with felony embezzlement and larceny after allegedly misusing funds donated for hurricane relief efforts. The 60-year-old former pastor of Garden Creek Baptist Church is accused of misappropriating substantial cash donations and church members’ contributions intended for relief efforts following Hurricane Helene, which caused significant damage and fatalities in North Carolina. Investigators began their inquiry after church members raised concerns in October, providing evidence of fraudulent transactions, including receipts for goods never purchased and services never rendered.

Further allegations suggest that Merrow also stole donated items such as generators, chainsaws, and heaters meant for disaster relief. This incident is part of a long history of financial misconduct. Merrow has a criminal record dating back to 2006, with previous convictions for obtaining property under false pretenses and larceny. He was sentenced to supervised probation for a 2021 larceny case in Camden County and served time for defrauding individuals in 2007.

In contrast, Rev. Franklin Graham of Samaritan’s Purse has been leading commendable efforts to assist those affected by Hurricane Helene, providing crucial support to communities in North Carolina. Graham highlighted the devastation and emphasized the spirit of neighbors helping neighbors, which has been a cornerstone of American response during crises.

Merrow’s arrest has drawn attention to the serious issue of embezzlement in religious and charitable organizations, showing the stark difference in how funds can be used for good or abused for personal gain.