HOUSTON, TX – Federal agents descended on a North Houston church Wednesday, accusing its pastors of orchestrating a $50 million labor trafficking and money laundering scheme. The investigation has unveiled a complex network of alleged exploitation and deceit.
Prosecutors allege that the church leaders, David Taylor and Michelle Brannon, operated call centers in multiple states, including Michigan, Florida, Texas, and Missouri. They reportedly coerced followers into working long hours for little or no compensation, while also pressuring them to meet donation quotas.
Throughout the day, agents were seen entering and exiting the church’s premises, which belong to the Kingdom of God Global Church. A local man, who works nearby, noted unusual activity over the past year, recalling instances of people working long hours under strict supervision.
Drone footage captured the extent of the church’s operations, showing the sprawling campus located off the North Freeway. The indictment claims that followers were housed in ministry accommodations or even slept in the call centers, with their movements tightly controlled.
Witnesses described seeing individuals forced to perform arduous tasks, such as cutting grass for hours under the Texas sun. “We always joked it was punishment,” said one observer, “but now it seems there was more to it.”
Taylor, who referred to himself as an apostle, allegedly required personal attendants, known as “armor bearers,” to serve him at all hours. Prosecutors also allege that women were brought to him and, in some cases, were directed to take emergency contraceptives.
Neighbors noted peculiar occurrences, like unmarked vehicles and armed guards on the property. “There were big stages in the back, but no one was ever on them,” remarked another witness.
Taylor and Brannon were arrested separately in North Carolina and Florida, respectively, and are expected to appear in court soon. Authorities believe this is just the beginning of their investigation and are urging others who may have been affected to come forward.