Leslie Williams, a 62-year-old Florida pastor who authored a book on strengthening marriages, was arrested Wednesday at The Villages retirement community on charges he married multiple women while already legally wed.
The Sumter County Sheriff's Office took Williams into custody on an outstanding warrant from Rockdale County, Georgia, where he faces bigamy charges. He remains held without bond as an out-of-state fugitive.
"Florida marriage records were obtained and confirmed that Leslie Williams was still lawfully married at the time of the subsequent marriage," the Rockdale County Sheriff's Office told Fox News Digital. "Based on these records, a warrant was obtained for Leslie Williams for the charge of bigamy."
The investigation began when someone reported the alleged bigamy to Haines City Police Department in Florida. The case transferred to Georgia authorities after records showed Williams' previous marriage was certified in Rockdale County.
Williams' own Facebook posts provided damning evidence. His social media showed he claimed to be married for years dating back to 2018, then announced a December marriage to a woman named Cindi. "Thanks for all the wonderful comments referencing my saved, beautiful and talented wife, Mrs. Williams!" he posted, featuring Cindi's photo as his cover image.
One friend responded with suspicion: "Wow I thought you were already married. Congratulations!!" When another questioned if the announcement was real, Williams replied, "Yes preacher!!!! THE HAPPIEST MAN on earth!!"
The celebration proved short-lived. Williams removed Cindi's photo from his profile two months later, replacing it with a car image. He also changed his relationship status from "married" to "single." Georgia authorities issued the arrest warrant April 3.
The irony runs deep. Williams operates a ministry at The Villages, the sprawling Central Florida retirement community that has long faced rumors about swinger activity among residents. Despite writing marriage advice, Williams allegedly violated one of marriage's most basic legal requirements — having only one spouse at a time.
For Americans who value the sanctity of marriage and religious leadership, this case represents a particularly egregious breach of trust. Pastors hold positions of moral authority, and Williams used his platform to counsel others on marriage while allegedly committing marriage fraud himself.
Williams now faces extradition to Georgia, where bigamy carries serious penalties. His case will test whether religious leaders receive equal treatment under the law when they violate the institutions they claim to protect.
