AUGUSTA, Maine – A suspected career criminal, Shamar Leggette, who was wanted for a high-profile armed robbery of a Brooklyn bishop during a live-streamed church service in 2022, was shot dead by US Marshals in New Jersey. Authorities were attempting to arrest Leggette on Wednesday for the brazen robbery of Bishop Lamor Whitehead when a confrontation ensued, resulting in Leggette opening fire on the Marshals. This led to his fatal shooting, according to law enforcement sources.
Leggette, 41, was identified as the third most wanted fugitive in New York and was also wanted by police in Rhode Island. He had a history of criminal activities and had served time in state prison for a variety of charges including robbery, attempted murder, and weapons possession. The most notorious incident was the armed mugging of former NBA player Chris Childs in 2002.
The Brooklyn church robbery involved Leggette and two masked accomplices who stormed the church during Whitehead’s sermon, targeting the bishop and his wife, and making off with valuable items including watches and jewelry. Despite the traumatic experience, Whitehead, who himself is facing charges, expressed forgiveness for the three men and offered to eulogize and preach at Leggette’s funeral free of charge.
Whitehead took to Instagram Live to share his feelings about the death of the man who had put a gun to his wife and daughter’s faces during the robbery. He expressed sadness about the situation and mentioned the cycle of destruction faced by African American people as a whole. This outpouring of forgiveness and understanding was a display of the bishop’s character and values.
The co-conspirators in the Brooklyn church robbery have already pleaded guilty, while Leggette’s death has put an end to the pursuit by law enforcement. His criminal history and the violent nature of his past actions shed light on the danger he posed to society, making his death a resolution to a longstanding threat.
As the news of Leggette’s death spreads, it provides an opportunity to reflect on the impact of criminal activities on communities and the need for healing and forgiveness. It also serves as a reminder of the risks and challenges faced by law enforcement officers in carrying out their duties. Despite the tragic circumstances, there are always lessons to be learned and opportunities for growth and understanding.