By L. Long, Staff Reporter
Durham, NC — Federal agents arrested David E. Taylor, 53, in a pre-dawn raid Wednesday at a residence in Durham, North Carolina, as part of a sweeping investigation into a $50 million forced labor and money laundering conspiracy. Taylor is one of two suspects who claim to be religious leaders and are allegedly tied to a human trafficking ring that spanned multiple states.
According to a spokesperson for the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Taylor is being charged in connection with a scheme that victimized individuals in Michigan, Florida, Texas, and Missouri.
Background of the Case
Taylor is identified as a leader of the Kingdom of God Global Church, formerly known as Joshua Media Ministries International, alongside Michelle Brannon, 56, of Tampa, Florida. The church allegedly operated call centers that generated tens of millions of dollars in donations while subjecting workers to abusive labor conditions.
“Taylor and Brannon required victims to work in the call centers long hours without pay or perform other services for Taylor,” the U.S. Department of Justice stated in a press release.
Victims were reportedly subjected to:
- Sleep deprivation
- Food and shelter restrictions
- Psychological abuse
- Public humiliation
- Threats of divine punishment, including sickness and eternal damnation
The indictment alleges that the church received $50 million since 2014, much of it through coercive fundraising tactics and unpaid labor.
Scope of the Investigation
The FBI’s raid in Durham is part of a multi-state crackdown targeting religious organizations accused of exploiting followers under the guise of spiritual service. Authorities are also investigating financial records, property holdings, and communications linked to Taylor and Brannon.
Taylor is expected to appear in federal court later this week. Brannon’s legal status remains unclear, though sources indicate she may be facing similar charges.
