Federal Indictment Targets Leaders of Kingdom of God Global Church for Forced Labor and Money Laundering Conspiracy

Federal Indictment Unveils Alleged Forced Labor and Money Laundering Scheme by Florida Church Leaders

TAMPA, Florida — In a shocking turn of events, two self-proclaimed religious leaders have been indicted on multiple charges, including forced labor and money laundering, as part of a conspiracy that allegedly exploited vulnerable individuals across several states, including Florida, Michigan, Texas, and Missouri.

David Taylor, 53, and Michelle Brannon, 56, leaders of the Kingdom of God Global Church (KOGGC), formerly known as Joshua Media Ministries International (JMMI), were arrested on August 27 in North Carolina and Florida, respectively. The indictment, issued by a federal grand jury in the Eastern District of Michigan, outlines a disturbing pattern of coercion and abuse.

According to the Department of Justice (DOJ), Taylor and Brannon operated a call center that solicited donations for their church. However, the indictment alleges that they compelled victims to work long hours without pay, often under the guise of serving as Taylor’s “armor bearers”—personal aides who were subjected to his demands.

The indictment details harrowing accounts of how victims were treated. Taylor allegedly forced his armor bearers to transport women from various locations to fulfill his personal desires, ensuring they took emergency contraceptives. Victims faced severe repercussions for failing to meet unrealistic donation targets, including public humiliation, additional labor, psychological abuse, and even physical assaults.

The KOGGC/JMMI reportedly amassed millions in donations, with Taylor receiving approximately $50 million since 2014. Much of this money was funneled into luxury properties, vehicles, and recreational equipment, including boats and ATVs.

The FBI’s Tampa office confirmed law enforcement activity at a church-owned mansion in the upscale Avila Community in Tampa, further highlighting the alleged misuse of funds. The mansion, located at 706 Guisando De Avila, is officially registered to the Kingdom of God Global Church.

Both Taylor and Brannon are set to face serious charges, with potential penalties including up to 20 years in prison for conspiracy to commit forced labor and money laundering, alongside hefty fines.

As the investigation unfolds, authorities are urging anyone with information related to human trafficking to reach out to the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888, available 24/7.

This case raises significant concerns about the exploitation of faith-based organizations and the need for vigilance against human trafficking in all its forms. The community watches closely as the legal proceedings begin, hoping for justice for the victims involved.