Dozens of David Taylor supporters flock to Detroit courtroom for leader’s hearing, refuse comment

DETROIT – Dozens of David Taylor supporters packed a Detroit courtroom on Friday as their self-proclaimed church leader faces accusations that he took over the lives of call center employees across the country.

Taylor, 53, told his followers that he is Jesus’ best friend and that God had given him the keys to the Kingdom on Earth.

He’s accused of forcing call center workers in Michigan, Florida, Texas, and Missouri to endure miserable living conditions as members of Kingdom of God Global Church, formerly Joshua Media Ministries International.

Taylor and his right-hand woman, Michelle Brannon, are facing federal charges, including forced labor and money laundering conspiracy.

Click here to read about Brannon’s case here.

Taylor was arrested in Durham, North Carolina, and made his first appearance in a Detroit courtroom on Oct. 9. He returned Friday, Oct. 17, and was joined by dozens of supporters.

Local 4 cameras captured video of about 40 supporters with messages on signs and clothing outside the courtroom. They sang and had an impromptu religious service.

“God bless you guys,” one of the supporters told Local 4’s Noelle Friel, when asked what why they were out there. “Jesus love you guys.”

“Have a good day,” another said.

When Noelle approached another group, a man told us, “God bless you, Jesus loves you. Just, Jesus loves you.”

Another man told her, “Not at the moment. Not yet,” when asked if there was a message they wanted to share.

Erika Erickson was inside the courtroom for Taylor’s hearing. There were so many supporters in the courtroom that they had to gather in front of the doorway. U.S. Marshals had to ask some of them to leave.

More supporters continued to try to enter during the arraignments before Taylor’s, and many were again turned away by Marshals.

Many of those who were kicked out of the courtroom settled for peeking through the windows to try to see what was happening.

As of 3:40 p.m., Taylor’s case has not been called.