Ex-Church Chairman Arrested for Alleged $11.5 Million Fraud

The former chairman of a Los Angeles church was arrested Aug. 26 for allegedly stealing $11.5 million from the religious organization and using the money to buy a home and a membership at Disneyland’s exclusive dining club, among other expenses.

Charles Thomas Sebesta, who used to serve as the chairman of the board for the Fifth Church of Christ, Scientist, is accused of using the ill-gotten funds to fund his own lifestyle. The church is based on the writings of Mary Baker Eddy, who taught that earthly illnesses can be cured with the power of prayer.

Sebesta reportedly controlled the ...