Rev. Chaplain Massa David Tarnue Jr., Senior Pastor of the Free Pentecostal Global Mission Church’s Fendell Branch has publicly admitted to theft and misapplication of trusted funds. His confession came during a hearing at the Bensonville Magisterial Court, where he acknowledged taking money intended for a land purchase.
The case was brought forward by Bobby Yango, a church member who accused Rev. Tarnue of misusing $8,075 meant for the acquisition of land. Yango, who has known and trusted the pastor for years, said he had exhausted all internal means to resolve the issue before turning to the courts.
With his lawyer, Cllr. Augustine M.W. Tebleh of the Dugbor Law Firm, by his side, Rev. Tarnue pleaded guilty, effectively confirming the allegations against him. In response, Magistrate Quincy A.Q. Garnett sentenced him to six months in prison but allowed a suspended sentence on the condition that he begin repaying the money. The first step? An initial $2,000 payment by noon on March 8.
However, when the deadline arrived, Rev. Tarnue was unable to provide the money. He was subsequently taken into custody at the Bensonville Police Station, where he was reportedly in tears, pleading for release while his legal team scrambled to gather the funds. After two hours in detention, the required amount was secured, and he was freed with a commitment to repay the remaining balance in monthly installments of $1,000, starting April 30.
For Yango, the legal battle has been a hard lesson in trust and accountability. He lamented how difficult it is for many Liberians abroad to entrust financial matters to individuals back home. He also expressed frustration over Rev. Tarnue’s initial response to the issue, describing it as dismissive and arrogant.
The scandal has left the congregation divided, with many questioning how such a situation could have unfolded within their church. Some members remain supportive of Rev. Tarnue, while others feel betrayed. Meanwhile, Yango has publicly praised Spoon Network for its detailed coverage of the case, crediting their reporting for bringing the matter to light and restoring some of his faith in the justice system.
As the legal process continues, tensions remain high. Yango is expected to address the media before returning to the United States, likely to clarify his stance and respond to accusations against Rev. Tarnue. On the other hand, the pastor has criticized Spoon Network, claiming their coverage was biased, despite the outlet publishing all court documents for public viewing.
While the church and its members work through the fallout, Rev. Tarnue’s future remains uncertain. For now, the repayment plan is in motion, but the damage to trust may take much longer to repair.
