The man suspected in the slaying of a New River pastor was extradited to the Valley on Friday to face murder, burglary and kidnapping charges.

Adam Sheafe has been indicted for the murder of William Schonemann, the pastor at New River Bible Chapel, according to a release from the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office.

“Schonemann’s death was part of a larger plot by Sheafe to kill 14 Christian leaders around the country,” the release stated.

Schonemann was found dead April 28 in his home in New River by two members of his congregation who went to check on him.

“The pastor’s body had been positioned with the arms outstretched, similar to a crucifixion,” the release stated. 

Sheafe also is accused of breaking into a home in Cave Creek two days earlier and stealing a pickup truck. The stolen truck was found by Sedona police who were investigating a burglary in which Sheafe and the truck were captured on surveillance video, authorities said.

He was caught the next day after breaking into another home in Sedona.

Detectives from the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office connected Sheafe to the pastor’s murder through evidence at the victim’s home, along with evidence from the Cave Creek burglary, and items found in Sheafe’s backpack and the stolen truck, according to the release.

“I commend our deputies for their professionalism and unwavering commitment to justice,” Maricopa County Sheriff Jerry Sheridan said.

 “This was a deeply disturbing crime that profoundly impacted the victim’s family, loved ones, and congregation. We remain committed to seeing justice served and honoring the victim’s memory through our continued work.”

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