Apostle David E. Taylor Arrested for Forced Labor and Money Laundering Conspiracy

David E. Taylor, the self-proclaimed apostle and leader of Kingdom of God Global Church and Joshua Media Ministries, has been arrested in a “nationwide takedown of their forced labor organization,” according to a U.S. Department of Justice press release. Taylor and Michelle Brannon, the executive director of Kingdom of God Global Church, face a 10-count grand jury indictment for their alleged roles in a forced labor and money laundering conspiracy that victimized individuals in Michigan, Florida, Texas, and Missouri.

Taylor, 53, and Brannon, 56, established call centers in Michigan, later expanding to Florida, Texas, and Missouri. Victims were forced to work long hours without pay. They were also subjected to unobtainable monetary donation goals. Failure to meet these goals led to public humiliation, additional work, food and shelter restrictions, psychological abuse, forced repentance, sleep deprivation, physical assaults, and threats of divine judgment, including sickness, accidents, and eternal damnation, according to the DOJ.

The DOJ stated that Taylor and Brannon controlled every aspect of their victims’ daily lives. Victims slept in call center facilities or in a “ministry” house and were not allowed to leave without permission. Taylor allegedly created a group of “armor bearers,” described as his personal servants, to obey his demands around the clock. These individuals were reportedly required to transport women from ministry houses, airports, and other locations to Taylor and ensure that the women transported took Plan B emergency contraceptives.

While the church was reportedly taking in millions in donations, Taylor and Brannon allegedly used the funds to purchase luxury properties, vehicles, and recreational equipment such as a boat, jet skis, and ATVs. On August 27, Taylor was scheduled to appear for indictment in Durham, N.C., and Brannon was set to appear in Tampa, Florida.

If convicted, both face severe penalties. Forced labor and conspiracy to commit forced labor charges carry up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. Conspiracy to commit money laundering charges carry up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $500,000, or twice the value of the properties involved in the money laundering transactions.

Source: Read the original report