Reality Star Mary Cosby Files $6.3 Million Lawsuit Against Church Executives

Amidst the drama of reality television, Mary Cosby, known for her role on “Real Housewives of Salt Lake City,” is making headlines with a legal battle off-screen. Mary’s return to the show coincides with a lawsuit filed against executives of the business wing of her church, Faith Temple Pentecostal.

Mary Cosby and her husband, Robert Cosby Sr., are reportedly suing the executives operating the church’s for-profit business entity, United Security Financial (USF), for misuse of funds among other allegations. According to the lawsuit, they are seeking approximately $6.3 million in damages. The accused, Shawn Turner—USF’s secretary—and Annie L. Johnson—USF’s president—are alleged to have used church funds for personal purposes, forged signatures, and intimidated church members.

Legal documents claim that Johnson, in particular, misappropriated church assets including a radio station once owned by the church. It is alleged that she transferred the property to her son, who later sold it, with proceeds reverting back to her. The Cosbys allege this radio station was valued at over $4.3 million at the time.

The complaint further accuses Johnson of commingling church funds to support a mortgage for an Indiana property, which was allegedly sold by Johnson’s husband. The Cosbys assert that this transaction resulted in a financial loss to the church totaling $421,912.40.

An audit unearthed claims that between 2006 and 2018, payments derived from the Cosbys’ personal checking account were made to settle a loan linked to a property purchased by Robert. The funds were controlled by Johnson, and alleged instances of unpaid mortgages and unauthorized financial activity have also been highlighted in the lawsuit.

This lawsuit serves as a backdrop to Mary Cosby’s return to “Real Housewives of Salt Lake City,” where she is known for her candid demeanor and flamboyant fashion sense. Her legal struggles bring an additional layer of drama to the on-screen narrative, as audiences continue to follow the series set against Utah’s stunning mountain ranges.

While the legal proceedings unfold, “Real Housewives of Salt Lake City” continues to air on Bravo, captivating viewers with the lives of affluent women navigating complexities in a tightly-knit community.