Herbert Irving Miller, referred to by some as the “Crystal Methodist,” skipped out on his arraignment on Friday, Feb. 23. A warrant has been issued for his re-arrest.
The now-former pastor of the United Methodist Church in Woodbury, Connecticut (WUMC), faces multiple charges after being accused of selling methamphetamine out of the church’s parsonage in exchange for watching gay couples have sex.
Miller, 63, was appointed as pastor of WUMC in July 2023, according to WFSB. Following his arrest, the church removed Miller from its website and YouTube channel.
ChurchLeaders has reached out to WUMC for comment but has not received a response.
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In a statement obtained by Patch, WUMC said that “the news of this unfortunate circumstance was met with reflection, shock and deep sadness. The disease of addiction is a problem that affects so many people, families, and communities.”
“Our prayers are that Herb Miller, those who love and care for him, and all others impacted by substance abuse and addiction receive the care needed to begin recovery and a meaningful healing process,” the church added.
Miller faces charges of possession of a controlled substance, possession with intent to sell, use of drug paraphernalia, illegal operation of a motor vehicle without minimum insurance, and operating an unregistered motor vehicle.
Suspicions of Miller’s alleged illegal activities first arose when neighbors noticed an unusual amount of traffic to the home at odd hours. One neighbor discovered a meth pipe in the street.
Miller was arrested earlier this month after being pulled over while driving a vehicle with a suspended registration and no insurance.
“Subsequent investigation revealed that Miller was in possession of crystal methamphetamine in both rock form and liquefied into a hypodermic needle prepared for injection,” said Connecticut State Police.
