FBI Raids Kingdom of God Church in Houston Over $50M Forced Labor and Abuse Case

HOUSTON — Federal agents executed a raid Tuesday morning at the Kingdom of God Global Church’s campus on the 14000 block of North Freeway, part of a nationwide effort targeting an alleged forced labor and money laundering scheme run by the self-proclaimed religious leaders David Taylor and Michelle Brannon.

According to the Department of Justice, Taylor, 53, and Brannon, 56, operated multiple call centers and ministry properties across Texas, Florida, Michigan, and Missouri. The indictment alleges the defendants used physical and psychological abuse to force followers to solicit tens of millions of dollars in donations—approximately $50 million since 2014—while controlling nearly every aspect of their lives.

At the Houston location, a former hotel converted into a ministry campus, victims were reportedly forced to work long hours in call centers and live on-site under restrictive conditions. Witnesses described the campus as heavily monitored, with victims rarely seen leaving and subjected to extreme discipline if fundraising goals were not met. The DOJ indictment details punishments such as sleep deprivation, public humiliation, and physical assault.

Taylor, who referred to himself as an “apostle” and “Jesus’ best friend,” allegedly maintained strict control over victims, including personally transporting women and mandating they take emergency contraceptives. Donations raised were reportedly spent on luxury vehicles—including Bentleys, Mercedes, and a Rolls-Royce—and recreational equipment such as boats and jet skis.

Arrests of Taylor in North Carolina and Brannon in Florida followed coordinated raids at nine sites connected to the organization. The charges include conspiracy to commit forced labor and money laundering, each carrying a potential prison sentence of up to 20 years.

The Kingdom of God Global Church has publicly denied all allegations, calling them lies and rejecting claims of cult-like behavior or labor abuse.

This high-profile case highlights ongoing federal efforts to dismantle organizations exploiting religious influence for financial gain and human trafficking. Authorities continue to investigate and support victims affected by this nationwide forced labor operation.

— Sources: FBI, U.S. Department of Justice, ABC13 Houston, FOX 26 Houston, Houston Chronicle