Two self-proclaimed religious leaders have been arrested on federal charges of forced labour and money laundering, accused of exploiting followers and using millions in donations to fund a luxury lifestyle.
David Taylor, 53, and Michelle Brannon, 56, were taken into custody on Wednesday in Durham, North Carolina, and Tampa, Florida, respectively. According to a federal indictment, the pair forced followers to work unpaid in call centres soliciting donations for the Kingdom of God Global Church, formerly Joshua Media Ministries International, across Michigan, Florida, Texas, and Missouri.
Taylor, who referred to himself as “Apostle” and “Jesus’ Best Friend”, allegedly exerted extreme control over victims, forcing some to serve as his “armor bearers” providing personal services around the clock. The indictment claims victims were not allowed to leave without permission and were subjected to physical and psychological abuse, including sleep deprivation, food restrictions, and threats of divine retribution.
The Department of Justice estimates that Taylor collected approximately $50 million in donations since 2014. The funds were allegedly used to acquire luxury properties, vehicles including a Mercedes and Rolls-Royce, jet skis, and seafood worth over $10,000. Federal agents raided multiple church-owned properties, including a former hotel in Houston where 17 people were removed.
Taylor and Brannon face charges of forced labour and money laundering. Taylor is due to appear in court in Durham on Thursday, while Brannon will appear in Tampa. The case is being handled by the DOJ’s Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit and the Eastern District of Michigan.
