The Houston-based Kingdom of God Global Church and its leaders are facing federal charges of human trafficking and fraud. Executive director Michelle Brannon appeared in federal court following FBI raids on the church’s assets, including the Joshua Media Ministries International building in Houston, where individuals were reportedly found in need of medical care but did not receive it, according to FOX 26.
Church leaders David Taylor and Michelle Brannon were arrested in North Carolina and Florida following human trafficking allegations across Michigan, Florida, Texas, and Missouri. Evidence showed staff were forced to work, denied basic needs if they did not meet financial goals, and pressured to fund the church using government EBT cards. Gospel artist Vicky Yohe, who had previously worked with Taylor, said, "Today was a victory for those who had no voice or who were afraid to expose the truth," as reported by FOX 26.
Federal agencies, including the FBI and IRS-CI, are investigating Houston church leaders Taylor and Brannon for allegedly forcing victims to solicit donations and subjecting them to abuse, such as sleep deprivation and threats. Community reactions have varied, and legal experts say the case shows that religious organizations can face criminal charges. The Kingdom of God Global Church investigation is ongoing, with millions in donations involved, as mentioned by the U.S. Department of Justice.
