A new Netflix documentary series is examining disturbing allegations of coercive control, sexual coercion and spiritual abuse surrounding the marriage of a US pastor and his wife, who died while seeking a divorce.

Death of the Pastor’s Wife tells the story of Mica Miller, 30, who was found dead in North Carolina in April 2024. Her death was ruled a suicide.

Two days before she died, Mica had served her husband, pastor John-Paul “JP” Miller, with divorce papers.

She grew up attending Solid Rock Church in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, where she became involved in worship ministry and later worked as JP's assistant.

Family members and friends featured in the documentary say Mica's relationship with JP developed while he was her pastor and mentor.

The series details allegations that Mica was subjected to years of coercive and controlling behaviour during their marriage, including sexual coercion, financial control, surveillance and attempts to isolate her from family and friends.

It also explores allegations of spiritual abuse and the role JP's position as a pastor played in the relationship, with those close to Mica describing a blurring of pastoral authority, marriage and control.

Mica had also experienced mental health problems and received psychiatric treatment in the years before her death. Her mental health and treatment form another significant part of the documentary's examination of her life and marriage.

JP Miller has not been charged in connection with his wife's death.

He is, however, facing separate federal charges of cyberstalking and making false statements. He has pleaded not guilty.

Miller continues to preach to a small congregation in the Myrtle Beach area, while the former Solid Rock Church property has been sold.

Mica's death has also prompted efforts to change the law in South Carolina. Her family is supporting proposed legislation known as “Mica's Law”, which would make coercive control a criminal offence in the state.