Church Seeks Return of $4 Million Seized by FBI in Forced Labor Probe

Church Petition for Seized Assets

• ⛪ The Kingdom of God Global Church has filed a petition to reclaim approximately $4 million in bank accounts and physical assets seized last year.
• ⚖️ The church argues that it continues to hold services and requires these funds for normal operational expenses.
• 🚫 It also asserts that the church itself has not been charged with any wrongdoing, despite its leaders facing accusations.

Background of the Investigation

• 🚨 In August, federal agents raided a Tampa mansion, reportedly used as a call center for the church, seizing cash, foreign currency, jewelry, and designer items.
• 👥 Church leader David E. Taylor, who calls himself an apostle, and fellow leader Michelle Brandon were arrested last fall.
• 💰 They are accused of running a forced labor and money laundering scheme, allegedly manipulating followers into soliciting donations that generated about $50 million over a decade.
• ⚠️ Past employees have described experiencing mental and physical abuse while working for the church.

Church's Legal Argument

• 💰 The church claims the seized assets are not connected to the alleged crimes and that withholding them causes substantial hardship to its operations.
• 💻 The church's website and YouTube page show evidence of ongoing live Sunday services, indicating continued operation.
• 📞 The Kingdom of God Global Church has not yet responded to requests for comment.