FBI Raids Ocala Home in Shocking Forced Labor and Money Laundering Case

FBI Raids Ocala Home in Shocking Forced Labor and Money Laundering Case

On August 27, 2025, the FBI launched a significant operation at a home located at 1280 SW 38th St. in Ocala, Florida. This search is part of a broader investigation into serious allegations of forced labor and money laundering linked to the Kingdom of God Global Church in Michigan, Florida, Texas, and Missouri. The church is owned by David Taylor (53) and Michelle Brannon (56), who are now facing federal charges stemming from a grand jury indictment in Michigan.

Taylor, who refers to himself as „Apostle,“ and Brannon, his Executive Director, are alleged to have led a conspiracy that exploited individuals for their financial gain. The Ocala residence is one of several call centers the church operated nationwide, with the local home being part of a gated community known as Bellwether. This is where employees reportedly worked under coercive conditions, with strict demands imposed by Taylor.

Call Centers and Allegations

The indictment alleges that since 2013, Taylor and Brannon have operated a network of call centers soliciting donations under false pretenses. Victims, who were dubbed “armor bearers,” are said to have faced severe restrictions on their freedom. “These individuals were compelled to serve Taylor personally and were often met with threats of humiliation along with restrictions on food and shelter,” Fox 2 Detroit reports.

From 2014 to their indictment, the church reportedly garnered around $50 million in donations, which the defendants allegedly funneled towards a lavish lifestyle, acquiring luxury properties, vehicles, and recreational equipment. The FBI noted that the organization maintained control over victims’ lives, with some required to live at the call center or ministry house, needing permission even to leave the premises.

Legal Consequences and Broader Context

The serious nature of the charges includes conspiracy to commit forced labor and money laundering. If convicted, both Taylor and Brannon could face up to 20 years in prison for each count, with each racking up a potential total of over 60 years. In addition, the financial ramifications of their actions could result in fines exceeding $1 million each.

As part of the federal investigation, both individuals were arrested recently—Taylor in Durham, North Carolina, and Brannon in Tampa, Florida. The scale of this case illustrates a concerning trend of human trafficking and financial exploitation under the guise of religious organization. Law enforcement agencies, including the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, have emphasized their commitment to combatting these crimes, ensuring justice is served for the victims involved.

In light of these developments, it raises questions about the safeguards in place for individuals within organizations like the Kingdom of God Global Church, previously known as Joshua Media Ministries International. Both Taylor’s and Brannon’s affiliations and the church’s operations provide a stark reminder of how some might exploit their positions of authority.

This situation is not only a legal matter but also a call for community awareness and vigilance, reminding us all to protect the vulnerable among us from exploitation, irrespective of their situations.