Pastor Indicted on Cyberstalking Allegations Linked to Estranged Wife’s 2024 Death
Indictment alleges predatory cyberstalking and coercive-control case tied to estranged wife's death
South Carolina pastor John Paul Miller, 46, was indicted on cyberstalking and false-statements charges tied to harassing his estranged wife, Mica Miller, 30, for more than a year before her death in 2024, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of South Carolina. The indictment was announced Thursday. Prosecutors say the conduct began in November 2022 and continued through Mica Miller’s death on April 27, 2024, when she was found at Lumber River State Park near Orrum, North Carolina, with an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Prosecutors say Miller posted a nude photo of Mica Miller online without her consent, contacted her more than 50 times in a single day, and placed tracking devices on her vehicle. Investigators also say he damaged her tires, and they found he had purchased a tire-deflation device online and discussed the vehicle with others, though Miller denied causing the damage.
Regina Ward, the attorney representing Mica Miller’s family, said her client suffered coercive control, a form of nonphysical abuse such as financial manipulation or isolation. Ward told WPDE that Mica Miller had told others about the experience and kept a journal. The case has spurred political action in South Carolina, with Sen. Stephen Goldfinch introducing 'Mica’s Law' to criminalize coercive control.
Authorities say the harassment interfered with Mica Miller’s finances and daily activities.
Miller faces a maximum of five years in prison for cyberstalking, two years for false statements, and fines of up to $250,000. Attorneys for John Paul Miller did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Mica Miller called 911 before her body was found, expressing concern that she might harm herself. Her death was reported by local outlets and confirmed by the Post and Courier as taking place at Lumber River State Park near Orrum, N.C.
Resources for mental health and crisis support are available in the United States via the 988 Lifeline, dontcallthepolice.com, and local services.
