A chilling case of domestic abuse and technological exploitation has led to federal charges against a former Myrtle Beach pastor. John Paul Miller, who once commanded spiritual authority, is now indicted on cyberstalking and false statement charges, accused of relentlessly tormenting his estranged wife with digital surveillance, harassment, and physical sabotage, a campaign that allegedly continued until her tragic suicide in April 2024.
Story Highlights
- John Paul Miller indicted on federal cyberstalking and false statement charges after wife’s suicide.
- Alleged harassment included posting nude photos, vehicle tracking, and 50+ contacts per day.
- Pattern of abuse continued from November 2022 until victim’s death on April 27, 2024.
- Case highlights dangerous abuse of pastoral authority and modern digital stalking methods.
Federal Charges Target Pastoral Abuse of Power
John Paul Miller, 46, faces serious federal consequences after a Columbia grand jury indicted him on cyberstalking and making false statements to investigators. The former Myrtle Beach pastor allegedly weaponized technology to terrorize his 30-year-old estranged wife throughout their divorce proceedings. Federal prosecutors charge Miller with conducting a sustained harassment campaign that included posting intimate images without consent, deploying vehicle tracking devices, and bombarding his victim with communications. This case demonstrates how those entrusted with spiritual leadership can exploit their positions to inflict devastating harm on the most vulnerable.
Disgraced South Carolina pastor, John-Paul Miller, stalked and posted a naked photo of his estranged wife before her suicide: feds https://t.co/oRsCWasg29 pic.twitter.com/OHOB9i7AEE
— New York Post (@nypost) December 19, 2025
Systematic Campaign of Digital Terror
Miller’s alleged actions reveal a calculated pattern of technological abuse spanning nearly two years. Federal investigators documented evidence of him posting nude photographs of his estranged wife online without permission, installing tracking devices on her vehicle, and contacting her more than 50 times in a single day. The harassment extended beyond digital boundaries to physical sabotage, including purchasing tire deflation devices to damage her vehicle. These tactics represent a modern evolution of domestic abuse, where technology enables perpetrators to maintain control and surveillance even after separation. Such behavior undermines the victim’s autonomy and safety in ways our founders never anticipated when crafting constitutional protections.
Deception Compounds Criminal Conduct
Miller’s alleged dishonesty with federal investigators adds another dimension to his legal troubles. Despite evidence showing his online purchases of tire deflation equipment and messages to others about the sabotage, Miller reportedly denied involvement when questioned by authorities. This pattern of deception suggests a calculated attempt to evade accountability while continuing to harm his victim. The false statements charge carries its own penalties, demonstrating that lying to federal investigators compounds rather than mitigates criminal exposure. Such behavior reflects a disturbing willingness to manipulate even law enforcement officials investigating serious crimes.
Tragic Outcome Demands Justice
The victim’s suicide on April 27, 2024, ended nearly two years of alleged torment but triggered intensive federal investigation into Miller’s conduct. The timing underscores how sustained harassment can push vulnerable individuals beyond their breaking point, particularly when escape seems impossible due to technological surveillance and repeated intrusions. Miller now faces up to five years in prison for cyberstalking and two additional years for false statements, plus substantial fines reaching $250,000. His January 12, 2026 arraignment in Florence federal court will begin formal proceedings that could finally deliver accountability for his alleged crimes.
This case serves as a stark reminder that positions of religious authority must never shield individuals from consequences when they abuse those who trusted them. The federal government’s aggressive prosecution sends a clear message that cyberstalking will face serious legal consequences, regardless of the perpetrator’s social standing or professional role.
Watch the report: MB Pastor Indicted: Cyberstalking, Lying About Late Wife
Sources:
District of South Carolina | Myrtle Beach Pastor Indicted for Cyberstalking Wife Before Her Death | United States Department of Justice
Mica Miller case: South Carolina pastor charged with allegedly cyberstalking wife for years before her death
Pastor charged with cyberstalking estranged wife for years before her death | FOX 32 Chicago
