Myrtle Beach’s Tensions: Protests, Allegations, and a Closed Church
Myrtle Beach has been buzzing with activity over the past few months, but it’s not the usual beachgoers or tourists grabbing attention. Instead, it’s the ongoing protests outside the now-defunct Solid Rock Church that have people talking. Every Sunday, a group known as Justice for Mica gathered on Pampas Drive, their voices echoing as they chant for justice in a case that has gripped not just the local community but has gone viral on social media platforms.
What Sparked the Protests?
The protests were ignited in the spring following the tragic suicide of Mica Miller in a North Carolina state park. Mica’s family has accused her estranged husband, John-Paul Miller, the former pastor of the church, of abusing her, alleging that his actions played a role in her untimely death. John-Paul vehemently denies these claims, stating that Mica struggled with severe mental illness and that he had nothing to do with her death.
As the story unfolded, it quickly spiraled into the realm of true crime fandom, spreading like wildfire across Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube. Mica’s name soon became a trending topic, captivating viewers with theories and discussions surrounding her death.
Chants and Confrontations
Week after week, the Justice for Mica protesters arrived clad in purple shirts, transforming the usually serene Sundays into a cacophony of chants like “You can’t hide from the FBI!” and “Justice for Mica!” The group’s presence became a fixture outside the church, much to the dismay of church members, leading to some heated encounters.
John-Paul claimed he was being harassed, saying he had to “hide” due to the relentless protests and the lack of assistance from the local police. His attorney, Russell Long, expressed frustration, asserting that the protesters were “hell-bent on harassing and stalking” his client. Meanwhile, the Myrtle Beach Police took a balanced approach, emphasizing the need for peace and safety for all involved.
Church Closure and Legal Actions
Amid this turmoil, Solid Rock Church officially closed its doors in November, with John-Paul’s attorney attributing the protests as a significant factor contributing to its closure. Legal battles ensued as John-Paul filed restraining orders against several protesters, claiming that their actions crossed the line from protest to harassment.
Two restraining orders have already been granted against notable protesters such as Jan “Guru” Lancaster and James “Jay” Bingham Jr. Lancaster argued that the order stemmed from a suggestion to John-Paul that if he produced a video with him, he would stop the protests. Bingham, a frequent protester known for his eye-catching Jesus attire, exclaims he has done nothing wrong and is merely exercising his right to protest.
Community Reactions
The aftermath of these events has left the local community divided. Some residents expressed that while the noise from the protests was bothersome, they recognized the group’s dedication and passion for justice. Others highlighted incidents like church member arrests stemming from confrontations with protesters, illustrating the tensions at play.
Despite the church’s closure, the Justice for Mica supporters showed no signs of slowing down. They organized events such as a benefit concert to honor Mica, continuing their quest for accountability and justice.
A Continued Fight for Justice
When asked about what justice means for her, Alexandra Cuozzo, one of the protest organizers, stated a clear desire to see John-Paul held accountable and in jail for his alleged actions. The FBI recently searched John-Paul’s home, raising eyebrows about what evidence they might be pursuing in connection with Mica’s case.
Myrtle Beach remains riveted by this saga, as the impact of the protests and the legal complexities unfold. As the quest for justice continues, many are left wondering what the future holds for both the community and those involved. If you or anyone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, help is available. The National Suicide Prevention hotline can be reached at 988.
