U.S. News
Michigan Church Leader Accused in Multi-State Labor Case
Clear Facts
- A Michigan federal grand jury indicted Kathleen Klein for alleged forced labor conspiracy across multiple states.
- Klein reportedly managed call centers for a religious group, demanding donations through unpaid labor and abusive tactics.
- The scheme allegedly generated about $50 million, benefiting church leaders for personal luxuries.
A federal grand jury charged Kathleen Klein, known as “Prophetess,” in a broad forced labor case covering Michigan, Florida, Texas, and Missouri. Prosecutors say Klein used her authority at Kingdom of God Global Church to run call centers where workers were pushed to solicit donations under harsh conditions.
“Victims were forced to work grueling hours at the call centers without pay and pressured to hit impossible fundraising targets,” a Department of Justice press release stated.
Allegations include public humiliation, loss of food and shelter, and severe discipline for not meeting goals.
KOGGC reportedly collected around $50 million from these efforts, spending proceeds on real estate, vehicles, and luxury goods.
Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva remarked, “This case reflects the gravity of forced labor schemes that strip victims of their basic human rights and subject them to physical and brutal psychological abuse.”
Duva added, “Combating human trafficking is a top priority for the Department of Justice. We will relentlessly pursue those who facilitate and profit from forced labor and fight to obtain justice for survivors.”
Special Agent in Charge Jennifer Runyan of the FBI’s Detroit Field Office described the forced labor as a “direct assault on human freedom.” She emphasized, “Anyone who conspires to exploit and enslave others for profit will be held fully accountable under the law.”
Runyan also stated, “This case demonstrates the strength of our federal, state, and local partnerships in dismantling a multi-state forced labor operation. We will not stop until these criminal networks are shut down and justice is delivered.”
Authorities indicted two more individuals in August 2025 on related charges, including conspiracy to commit money laundering and forced labor.
This case highlights ongoing law enforcement focus on defending freedom and preventing exploitation across the nation.
Stay informed and vigilant on developments that safeguard American values.
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