BREAKING: Northport Pastor Indicted on Felony Theft Charge Following Church Finance Investigation

NORTHPORT, Ala. (BuzzReport) — The senior pastor of a Northport church has been indicted by a Tuscaloosa County grand jury on a felony theft charge following an investigation into the church’s finances.

According to Tuscaloosa County Jail records, Scott Willmore, senior pastor of The Word Church, surrendered to authorities Monday morning at the Tuscaloosa County Jail after learning of the indictment.

Willmore has been charged with one count of first-degree theft of property, a felony offense under Alabama law. Jail records show he was released Monday after his bond was set at $30,000.

The case stems from an investigation conducted by the Tuscaloosa County Sheriff’s Office. Authorities confirmed that the Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division launched the probe several months ago after receiving information regarding financial concerns involving church funds and Willmore’s handling of those finances.

Investigators have not publicly disclosed the amount of money allegedly involved or provided specific details regarding the allegations that led to the indictment. However, the grand jury determined there was sufficient evidence to formally charge Willmore with first-degree theft of property.

The indictment represents a significant development in a case that has drawn attention within the local faith community. As senior pastor, Willmore held a position of trust and leadership within the congregation, making the allegations particularly notable for church members and supporters.

Under Alabama law, first-degree theft of property is a serious felony charge that generally involves property or funds exceeding a statutory value threshold. A conviction could carry substantial legal penalties.

The Tuscaloosa County Sheriff’s Office has not indicated whether additional charges or arrests are expected as the investigation continues.

An indictment is a formal accusation and is not evidence of guilt. Willmore, like all defendants, is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

The case will now proceed through the Tuscaloosa County court system, where prosecutors will present their evidence and the defense will have an opportunity to respond to the allegations.

The investigation has raised questions about financial oversight and accountability within religious organizations, particularly when concerns involve funds donated by church members and supporters.

BuzzReport will continue to follow this developing story and provide updates as additional court records and information become available.