A chilling indictment has emerged from Michigan, revealing a dark underbelly within the Kingdom of God Global Church. A federal grand jury has charged a third individual, identified as Kathleen Klein – known within the organization as “Prophetess” – in a sweeping forced labor conspiracy.
Prosecutors allege Klein was a key leader, instrumental in orchestrating a multi-state call center operation designed to exploit vulnerable individuals. This operation, formerly operating as Joshua Media Ministries International, relentlessly solicited donations under the guise of religious work, but in reality, it was a system of coercion and abuse.
The alleged scheme spanned across Michigan, Missouri, Florida, and Texas, trapping workers in a cycle of grueling hours and unpaid labor. These individuals were relentlessly pressured to meet impossible fundraising quotas, facing severe consequences for any perceived failure.
The consequences weren’t merely financial. Those who couldn’t meet the demands, or dared to resist, were subjected to a horrifying array of punishments. Public humiliation, deliberate sleep deprivation, physical violence, and the denial of basic necessities like food and shelter were commonplace.
Beyond the physical torment, victims endured forced repentance rituals and were terrorized with threats of divine retribution. Leaders allegedly warned of sickness, accidents, even death – both in this life and eternal damnation – for any sign of disobedience.
Since 2014, the organization amassed an estimated $50 million in donations. But this wealth wasn’t used for charitable purposes; instead, it allegedly funded a lavish lifestyle for those at the top, including personal real estate, luxury vehicles, extravagant travel, and high-end goods.
The indictment further reveals disturbing allegations against David Taylor, one of the previously charged defendants. He is accused of repeatedly requesting and receiving sexually explicit images and videos from female church workers, adding another layer of exploitation to the already horrific situation.
Kathleen Klein now faces a potential 20-year prison sentence if convicted of conspiracy to commit forced labor. David Taylor and Michelle Brannon, initially indicted in July, face similar penalties for charges including forced labor and money laundering.
The Department of Justice has condemned the alleged practices as a grave violation of human rights, emphasizing its unwavering commitment to combating human trafficking. Officials vow to relentlessly pursue those who profit from such exploitation and to secure justice for the survivors.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the insidious ways in which abuse can hide behind a facade of faith, and the urgent need to protect the vulnerable from those who would exploit them for personal gain.
