MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WBTW) — Solid Rock church pastor John-Paul Miller’s recent arrest could impact whether he gets bond if he were to face federal criminal charges, Conway attorney Regina Ward told News13 on Thursday.

Miller was released from the Myrtle Beach jail Thursday morning after posting bond on an assault charge tied to an obscenity-laced confrontation with a female protester near the Market Common church.

He was arrested late Wednesday night and charged with third-degree assault and held until after he appeared in court. He was released after posting a $776 bond but is due back in court at 4:30 p.m. on Dec. 10.

Controversy has swirled around John-Paul and Solid Rock Ministries since his wife, Mica, was found dead in late April at the Lumber River State Park in Robeson County. Her death was eventually ruled a suicide, but the case sparked nationwide interest because of allegations that she was abused by her husband before her death.

Ward said the U.S. Attorney General’s Office asked her months ago to turn over any documents related to Mica Miller. Ward has represented Mica’s family and estate since her death.

The investigation turned public on Nov. 1 when federal authorities searched John-Paul’s home on Coldwater Circle in the Azalea Lakes neighborhood near Myrtle Beach. Authorities were seen carrying items out of the house late Friday afternoon, including boxes, a computer screen, and what looked like an external computer drive.

Ward said the documents she provided helped the FBI obtain a search warrant to search John-Paul’s home.

Ward said the assault charge after Wednesday’s confrontation might only be a misdemeanor, but if a federal charge ever does come, it could impact the court’s decision to give him bond. It would also depend on whether the current assault charge has been resolved.

“At the end of the day, it sure is going to help this case going forward,” Ward said. “And he might as well get used to it. We’re [protesters] not going away, we’re not going away, until he goes away.” 

Ward said the FBI is asking victims of domestic violence associated with John-Paul to come forward as the investigation continues. She says anyone with information can reach out to the FBI or her office. You can also reach out via email: justiceformicatips@gmail.com.