Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, January 16, 2026
John-Paul Miller, a former pastor in Myrtle Beach, has pleaded not guilty to federal charges of cyberstalking and making false statements. The federal court proceedings led to his release on a $100,000 unsecured bond with specific conditions to prevent flight risks, including the requirement to wear an ankle monitor and surrender his passport. The case, tied to the suspicious death of his estranged wife, has drawn significant public attention and demonstrations calling for justice.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
A former pastor in Myrtle Beach, John-Paul Miller, 46, entered a plea of not guilty this week to federal charges of cyberstalking and making false statements to federal investigators. The proceedings, which saw Mr. Miller released on bond, occurred on Monday, January 13, 2026, marking a significant step in a case that has drawn public attention and raised profound questions regarding accountability and the pursuit of justice.
Judicial Proceedings and Bond Conditions
During his arraignment, held on Monday, January 13, 2026, John-Paul Miller, who previously led the Solid Rock Church at Market Common, formally contested the allegations against him. Federal Magistrate Thomas Rogers presided over the hearing, where the prosecution, represented by Assistant Prosecutor Elle Klein, articulated concerns regarding Mr. Miller’s potential flight risk. These concerns were underscored by evidence presented, including the discovery of a safe containing cash, silver, and other valuables at Mr. Miller’s residence, coupled with his reported access to a private aircraft. Ms. Klein emphasized that the victim’s family would find reassurance in digital monitoring of Mr. Miller’s whereabouts.
In light of the arguments, the court ordered Mr. Miller’s release on a $100,000 unsecured bond. This release came with several stringent conditions designed to mitigate flight risk and ensure public safety. Mr. Miller is now required to wear an ankle monitor, surrender his passport, and must remain within the State of South Carolina. Furthermore, a critical condition of his bond explicitly prohibits him from making contact with any potential witnesses or members of the family of Mica Miller, his estranged second wife.
Background of the Allegations
The charges against Mr. Miller stem from accusations of harassing his wife, Mica Miller, prior to her death in 2024, which authorities classified as a suspicious suicide. Following her death, Mr. Miller was also accused of lying to police during their investigation, leading to his indictment in December 2025. These developments have cast a somber light on the private anguish that can precede public tragedies and the intricate threads of human relationships.
Path Forward and Community Response
Mr. Miller’s defense counsel waived his right to a speedy trial, a decision attorneys have noted is not uncommon in cases of this nature. Court records suggest that a trial for the federal cyberstalking and false statement charges could potentially commence as early as March. If convicted, Mr. Miller faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
Outside the courthouse, a palpable sense of community concern was evident, as crowds gathered dressed in purple, holding signs that bore the hashtag #JusticeforMica. These demonstrations reflect a collective yearning for clarity and resolution in a case that touches upon the profound human desire for truth and fairness. Regina Ward, who represents Mica Miller’s family, expressed emotional satisfaction following the hearing, particularly regarding the judge’s order for an ankle monitor, stating that she was “very happy”. The family’s perspective underscores the human element at the heart of legal proceedings, reminding us that beyond the statutes and arguments, there are lives irrevocably altered and a deep-seated hope for a just outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is John-Paul Miller?
John-Paul Miller, 46, is a former pastor at Solid Rock Church at Market Common in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
What charges does John-Paul Miller face?
John-Paul Miller faces federal charges of cyberstalking and making false statements to federal investigators.
When did John-Paul Miller plead not guilty?
John-Paul Miller pleaded not guilty during his arraignment on Monday, January 13, 2026.
What are the conditions of John-Paul Miller’s bond release?
John-Paul Miller was released on a $100,000 unsecured bond and is required to wear an ankle monitor, surrender his passport, stay within South Carolina, and is prohibited from contacting potential witnesses or Mica Miller’s family.
What is the maximum penalty John-Paul Miller could face if convicted?
If found guilty, John-Paul Miller faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Key Aspects of the John-Paul Miller Case
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Defendant | John-Paul Miller, 46, former pastor at Solid Rock Church |
| Charges | Federal cyberstalking, lying to federal investigators |
| Plea | Not guilty |
| Arraignment Date | Monday, January 13, 2026 |
| Bond Amount | $100,000 unsecured bond |
| Bond Conditions | Ankle monitor, passport surrender, stay within South Carolina, no contact with witnesses or Mica Miller’s family |
| Victim (Related) | Mica Miller, estranged second wife (suspicious suicide in 2024) |
| Trial Estimate | As early as March |
| Maximum Penalty (if convicted) | 5 years in prison, $250,000 fine |
| Location (State-level) | Myrtle Beach, South Carolina |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
New Target Stores Announced for South Carolina
Federal Charges Against Myrtle Beach Pastor John-Paul Miller
Former Myrtle Beach Pastor Pleads Not Guilty to Federal Charges
Federal Charges Filed Against Myrtle Beach Pastor in Wife’s Death
New Phone Number Brings Disturbing Harassment to South Carolina Man
Federal Indictment for Myrtle Beach Pastor Linked to Wife’s Death
Myrtle Beach Golf Club Hosts a Day of Love and Family Celebration
Horry County Officer Terminated Amid Investigation
Myrtle Beach Resident Files Lawsuit After Home Invasion
Concerns Rise Over Sexual Assault Cases in Myrtle Beach
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
