Imagine believing you’re working for God, only to find yourself trapped in a sophisticated forced labor scheme. That’s the shocking reality behind the arrest of a self-proclaimed ‘apostle’ and his executive director. They allegedly coerced workers at religious call centers while funding lavish lifestyles. How far would someone go under the guise of faith?
A shocking nationwide investigation has exposed a vast forced labor ring operating under the guise of religious ministry, leading to the arrest of two prominent figures. David Taylor, a self-proclaimed “apostle” who astonishingly claimed to be Jesus’ best friend, and his executive director Michelle Brannon, now face serious federal charges. Their alleged scheme involved coercing vulnerable individuals into working at religious call centers, soliciting millions in donations while the leaders lived a lavish lifestyle.
The arrests occurred in North Carolina and Florida, targeting the leaders of what was known as the Kingdom of God Global Church (KOGGC), formerly Joshua Media Ministries International (JMMI). Both Taylor and Brannon are indicted on charges including conspiracy to commit forced labor, forced labor itself, and conspiracy to commit money laundering. These allegations paint a grim picture of exploitation concealed beneath a facade of faith.
Taylor’s charismatic yet manipulative persona was central to the operation, as he asserted divine authority, claiming to have had direct encounters with God and possessing the “keys to the Kingdom on Earth.” He allegedly propagated the belief that defying his commands was tantamount to defying God, threatening eternal damnation for those who disobeyed, thus exerting immense psychological pressure on his followers and workers in this widespread **religious cult**.
At the heart of the alleged scheme were numerous call centers established across the country, including in Florida, Texas, and Missouri. Victims were reportedly compelled to work long, unpaid hours making “cold calls” to solicit monetary donations for KOGGC/JMMI. Many laborers were housed in ministry-controlled residences, often bused daily to the call centers, effectively isolating them from outside influence.
The coercive tactics employed by Taylor and Brannon were reportedly severe, designed to ensure obedience and maximize fundraising efforts. Punishments for failing to meet “unobtainable” monetary goals or disobeying orders included public humiliation, additional arduous work, restrictions on food and shelter, sleep deprivation, and even physical assaults. Psychological abuse was rampant, coupled with threats of divine judgment, illness, accidents, and eternal damnation, characterizing this **human trafficking** operation.
Evidence presented in the 23-page indictment includes disturbing text messages from Taylor, revealing the depth of the alleged manipulation. In one instance, he reportedly texted a group chat, “Point blank…if you don’t work, you can’t eat,” highlighting the draconian control over his victims’ most basic needs. Another message chided a worker for only raising $6,000 in five hours, emphasizing the relentless pressure for donations, central to this **call center fraud**.
While the alleged **forced labor** ring generated millions in donations annually, the bulk of these funds was reportedly diverted to finance the extravagant lives of Taylor and Brannon. Prosecutors allege they used the proceeds to acquire luxury properties, high-end vehicles, and recreational equipment such as boats, jet skis, and ATVs, starkly contrasting with the conditions endured by their laborers. This systematic exploitation underscores the nature of the **faith-based scam**.
Experts in financial crime and religious cults have weighed in, noting that this case exemplifies how individuals can exploit the benefits and trust associated with religious institutions for personal gain. The FBI special agent in charge of the Detroit Field Office underscored that “money laundering is tax evasion in progress,” and in this particular case, it served to fund a purported forced labor ring and support an extravagant lifestyle under the guise of a spiritual ministry.
As justice unfolds, Michelle Brannon has already appeared in federal court, indicating ongoing legal proceedings that aim to hold the alleged perpetrators accountable. The investigation continues to shed light on the egregious abuse carried out by this religious cult, promising a thorough pursuit of justice for the victims and a stark reminder of the dangers lurking behind false prophets. This significant apostle arrest represents a crucial step in combating such deceptive operations.
