Two religious leaders face federal charges in a $50M forced labor case. FBI confirmed an operation at a Houston building tied to their ministry.
HOUSTON — Two self-professed religious leaders are facing federal charges in a nationwide case that prosecutors say involved forced labor, money laundering, and tens of millions in coerced donations — with ties to Texas, Michigan, Florida, and Missouri.
A federal grand jury in the Eastern District of Michigan returned a 10-count indictment against David Taylor, 53, and Michelle Brannon, 56, leaders of Kingdom of God Global Church (formerly Joshua Media Ministries International). Both were arrested on Wednesday as part of a multi-state takedown — Taylor in North Carolina and Brannon in Florida.
Locally, the FBI confirmed it conducted an operation early Wednesday morning at a building owned by JMMI Global at 12701 North Freeway in Houston.
Allegations of abuse and control
According to the indictment, Taylor and Brannon compelled victims to work in call centers tied to their ministry and serve as Taylor’s personal “armor bearers.” Prosecutors allege victims were forced to live in ministry houses or call center facilities and were not permitted to leave without permission.
Victims were allegedly required to work long hours without pay, pressured to meet unrealistic fundraising goals, and punished with public humiliation, food and shelter restrictions, psychological abuse, sleep deprivation, and physical assaults if they failed.
Prosecutors also accuse Taylor of ordering victims to transport women to him and ensuring they took emergency contraceptives.
The indictment claims that since 2014, Taylor and Brannon brought in about $50 million in donations, using much of the money to buy luxury homes, vehicles, a boat, jet skis, and ATVs.
DOJ, FBI, and IRS statements
“Combating human trafficking is a top priority for the Department of Justice,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon.
“The indictment of David Taylor and Michelle Brannon demonstrates the FBI’s steadfast efforts to protect the American people from human exploitation and financial crimes,” added Acting Special Agent in Charge Reuben Coleman of the FBI Detroit Field Office.
IRS investigators said the alleged money laundering “funded an alleged human trafficking ring and supported a luxury lifestyle under the guise of a religious ministry.”
Possible penalties
If convicted, Taylor and Brannon face up to 20 years in prison for each forced labor charge, up to 20 years for money laundering, and fines of up to $500,000 or twice the value of laundered property.
Taylor was scheduled to appear in court on Wednesday in Durham, North Carolina, while Brannon was expected in Tampa, Florida.
How to report human trafficking
Anyone with information is urged to call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or visit humantraffickinghotline.org.
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