Amish Retreat Leader’s Case Moved to Montgomery County

Sam Shetler, a 42-year-old man from Boonville, has moved his case to Montgomery County after being accused of abusing individuals at the Amish retreat he led. Shetler is charged with three counts of trafficking for the purposes of forced labor, one count of first-degree sodomy, four counts of first-degree kidnapping, one count of first-degree sexual abuse, and one count of first-degree involuntary manslaughter.

Shetler was the leader of Mercy and Truth, a retreat catering to Amish and Mennonite individuals. He was arrested and charged in late March for forced labor and manslaughter. According to previous reports, Shetler has owned and operated the retreat since 2022.

Between 2022 and 2026, the Cooper County Sheriff’s Office received multiple calls regarding “cult-like” behavior, including allegations of abuse, sexual misconduct, and neglect. Some of these reports were deemed unfounded or could not be fully investigated due to cultural differences, as noted in a probable cause statement.

Shetler is accused of allegedly compelling individuals to work without pay, forcing them to take excessive medications, and subjecting them to various forms of abuse. He requested a change of venue, arguing that media coverage of his case could prejudice a jury. The motion listed Montgomery, Monroe, and Shelby counties as potential transfer locations.

The plaintiffs in the case supported the change of venue and recommended Montgomery County, as stated in court documents. His original trial date, set for 3 p.m. on August 13, was canceled. The new court date in Montgomery County has not been publicly disclosed.

The case highlights the challenges of addressing abuse within religious communities, where cultural norms and practices can complicate investigations and legal proceedings. Proverbs 18:17 reminds us that justice is served when parties agree to a fair resolution, emphasizing the importance of due process and impartial judgment.

Source: Read the original report