Exclusive: McDowell County Woman Allegedly Stole $104K from a Marion Church

Misty Stockton Honeycutt, 47, was arrested in McDowell County for allegedly embezzling more than $104,500 from Bible Baptist Church in Marion over 11 years. 

Court documents obtained by WCAB News said that Honeycutt, serving as an officer and fiduciary of the church, “unlawfully, willfully and feloniously” misapplied funds totaling $104,587.49. The indictment, signed by Marion Police Department Lt. Rusty Jenkins, lists offenses from June 5, 2012, to April 25, 2023.

Honeycutt appeared before Judge MacKinnon for an attorney bond review on September 26, 2025, and subsequently posted bond.

Financial experts note that church embezzlement often occurs gradually over several years and can involve weak internal controls, the misuse of debit cards, fictitious vendors, inflated reimbursements, or skimming of offerings. Red flags include missing records, unauthorized transactions, unexplained lifestyle changes, and resistance to financial transparency. Preventive measures recommended include segregating financial duties, requiring dual signatures on checks, conducting regular audits, limiting card use, and promoting accountability and transparency. 

The exact details of this case were not immediately publicly available. Honeycutt was released from custody and is set to appear in court again on November 17, 2025, according to public records.