Cunning fake priest 'swindles millions from churches to buy premium llamas'

18 February 2023 , 07:30

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A fake priest swindled millions out of churches to purchase 'premium llamas' (Image: VICE/Youtube)

A "cunning" fake priest has been accused of swindling millions of dollars from churches in his local area and using the money to fund his expensive lifestyle and some bizarre purchases.

Imposter Ryan Scott claimed to be a practising priest for the past 30 years and offered services including weddings, confessions and baptisms.

Former members of his church have claimed that 'Father Ryan' was actually a swindler, who, upon being rumbled, would simply relocate to another town and begin his money-making scheme all over again.

Legal documents provided evidence to show that Ryan "is not now and never has been ordained", but even without a confer of holy orders, Ryan appeared to "impress" people with his knowledge.

Fake priest Ryan Scott (VICE/Youtube)

Over a 30-year period, Ryan is said to have travelled around the Midwest of the United States, preaching and profiting from those who put their faith in him.

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Alex Schuman, a podcaster and journalist, dug deeper into the backstory of the alleged conman and claims that Ryan was "not a priest at all".

Speaking of the alleged scam, Schuman told Vice: "Father Ryan did this for about 30 years, travelling the Midwest, opening different churches. It's not like he shows up in town and hides himself.

Father Ryan purchased 'premium llamas' with the money he swindled from churches (Getty Images)

"People described being really impressed by him. They felt that God was in the room while he was up at the pulpit preaching."

In one interview clip, Ryan said that his "priesthood had been questioned" but failed to provide evidence to show that he was, legally, a priest.

Father Ryan, who was described as "incredibly cunning" by Schuman, was found to have a child "conceived out of wedlock", with Jonathan Brady saying this claim "derails" his credibility.

Father Ryan failed to show evidence that he was a real priest (VICE/Youtube)

The so-called priest had converted a care centre in Buchanan, which is where he had stored up to 20 Argentine llamas, claiming they would be part of the healing ministry he was building.

After a "short" stint behind bars, it would appear Ryan is now a "retired" priest, updating his Facebook and sending out a link to request "donations" for a church in Portugal.

Charlotte Hawes