Powell Pleads Guilty to Church Fraud Scheme

Former African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church (“AME Zion”) bishop Staccato Powell pleaded guilty today in federal court, admitting to a massive scheme that defrauded church properties in California. Powell, 65, of Wake Forest, North Carolina, and his co-defendant Sheila Quintana are accused of orchestrating a fraud that targeted church assets worth millions.

According to court documents, Powell, who was bishop of the Western Episcopal District covering states including California, formed an entity called Western Episcopal District, Inc. (WED, Inc.). He instructed pastors throughout the district to sign deeds transferring church property to WED, Inc., using forged documents and false statements.

Starting in 2017, Powell directed Quintana and other WED, Inc. officers to secure loans using these properties as collateral. They created fake resolutions purporting to be approved by church boards, allowing Powell to obtain mortgages on properties such as Kyles Temple in Vallejo and the First AME Zion Church in San Jose.

For example, Powell orchestrated a $1.5 million loan for an episcopal residence in Granite Bay using Kyles Temple in Vallejo as collateral. He directed Quintana to draft a false resolution that claimed approval from the church board, which never occurred. Powell also instructed Quintana to use false resolutions to secure loans for a parsonage purchase in San Jose.

Powell admitted to fraudulently obtaining mortgages on these properties and faces significant penalties for his actions. His plea agreement includes a detailed account of his fraudulent activities, highlighting the extent of the scheme to defraud the AME Zion Church and its members.

Quintana pleaded guilty to conspiracy in April 2025, providing further evidence against Powell. The case serves as a stark reminder of the corruptibility of religious leadership and the need for transparency in church governance.

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