AT2W

Pearson was fired from Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church in June 2012 upon criminal allegations he had given himself a $5,000 raise and bonuses of $20,000 in 2010 and $25,000 in 2011. Pearson was appointed pastor of the church in 2008.

Church members alleged he spent thousands more, possibly more than $200,000 at several area retail stores and restaurants, including the Electric Cheetah, Macy’s, Victoria’s Secret and Hearthstone Bistro.

He pleaded no contest in January to embezzling between $50,000 and $100,000 from his congregation.

Pearson was to be sentenced on Thursday, April 4.

Instead, Circuit Judge Dennis Leiber delayed the hearing until July 11 and told Pearson he must work out a plan to repay restitution within 48 months. Leiber listed a preliminary number of $167,452.81. That number will likely change.

Also within the next three months, Leiber said he hoped related civil cases against Pearson would be resolved.

Pearson must not have any contact with Pilgrim Rest members from now through July. He cannot come within 500 feet of the church, Leiber ordered.

Pearson also must not have any access to money that is not his own.