Church Leaders Arrested in Forced Labor and Money Laundering Scheme

News Summary

David Taylor and Michelle Brannon, leaders of the Kingdom of God Global Church, have been arrested for their involvement in a multistate forced labor and money laundering operation. Investigators allege that church members were exploited, forced to work long hours in call centers without pay, while donations meant for charitable causes were misappropriated. The case has raised critical questions about oversight within religious organizations. Both leaders face serious charges with potential prison sentences of up to 20 years as they await court hearings.

Detroit, Michigan – Church leaders David Taylor and Michelle Brannon, affiliated with the Kingdom of God Global Church (previously known as Joshua Media Ministries), have been arrested in connection with a multistate forced labor and money laundering scheme. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is currently building a case against them as they await extradition; Taylor was apprehended in Durham, North Carolina, while Brannon was arrested in Tampa, Florida.

The arrests followed a significant multistate raid conducted on August 27, 2025. Reports indicate that the individuals involved in the church were coerced into working extensively in call center operations without pay, with many working up to 20 hours per day. Disturbingly, victims detailed experiences of deprivation, including lack of food, sleep, and necessary medical care as part of their forced labor conditions.

Investigators have linked numerous properties to Taylor and Brannon, including a lavish mansion in Tampa and a sprawling 10,000-square-foot estate near St. Louis that was formerly owned by rapper Nelly. Since 2014, the church has reportedly raised approximately $50 million in donations, which are alleged to have financed the lavish lifestyles of the church leaders rather than legitimate charitable efforts, leading to multiple allegations of fraud against them.

According to court documents, church members were manipulated into believing that their donations would support charitable causes. However, it has been determined that the funds were often misappropriated for personal luxury. Evidence from text messages presented by prosecutors has revealed the harsh working conditions imposed on the church members, accompanied by threats from Taylor, including deprivation of meals and facing extreme working hours.

Victims also reported instances of physical and verbal abuse, particularly if they were unable to meet ambitious donation quotas. Taylor, who referred to himself with titles such as “Apostle” and “Jesus’ best friend,” enforced a regime of strict compliance among followers, emphasizing severe consequences for those who disobeyed.

The indictment against Taylor and Brannon includes serious charges of conspiracy to commit money laundering and forced labor. These charges carry significant penalties, with up to 20 years of imprisonment possible for the accused. In light of her recent health complications, Brannon’s attorney has requested her release on bail, attributing her actions to manipulation by Taylor.

Federal investigators have characterized the operation as a troubling case of human trafficking masquerading as a religious ministry. Meanwhile, supporters of Taylor and Brannon have contended that many individuals joined the ministry voluntarily and without coercion. Allegations have also emerged that government food benefits, intended for personal use, may have been misappropriated to nourish church staff, further complicating financial accountability.

As the legal proceedings continue, both Taylor and Brannon face multiple charges, with the next court hearing scheduled for September 30, 2025. The unfolding case has raised many critical questions about oversight and regulation of religious organizations in the pursuit of charitable donations and the treatment of their members.

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