Authorities Investigate Deaths, Disappearances Linked to Cult

URGENT UPDATE: Authorities are intensifying an investigation into a series of disturbing deaths and disappearances linked to a small, secretive religious organization known as His Way Spirit Led Assemblies. The probe has gained momentum following police raids in August 2023 that uncovered illegal weapons and led to the questioning of the group’s leaders.

In a chilling turn of events, the investigation focuses on the death of a 4-year-old boy, Timothy Thomas, who died in 2010 under suspicious circumstances, as well as the disappearances of two men—Ruben Moreno, 43, missing since 2019, and Emilio Ghanem, 40, last seen in May 2023 at a Starbucks in Redlands.

Authorities have linked these tragic cases to the church’s leaders, Darryl Muzic Martin and Shelly Bailey “Kathryn” Martin, who were caring for Timothy at the time of his death. A coroner’s investigation from 2010 revealed that Timothy died from septic shock due to a ruptured appendix, raising questions about the Martins’ control over their congregation.

“The ongoing investigation has suggested cult-like activity similar to what was reported in 2010,” stated Colton Police Sgt. Shawn McFarland.

In August 2023, police executed raids on compounds in Hemet and Anza, where members of the group reside. Officers seized fully automatic rifles and other illegal firearms, detaining a dozen individuals briefly. Although everyone was released and no charges have been filed, the police continue to scrutinize the church’s activities.

Ghanem’s disappearance is particularly alarming. Family members reported that he planned to leave the group for Nashville, Tennessee, to reconnect with relatives. However, prior to his vanishing, he received a cease-and-desist letter from the church, accusing him of stealing clients from their pest control business.

Experts in cult dynamics, including Steven Hassan, warn that groups like His Way Spirit Led Assemblies often employ manipulative tactics to isolate and control their members. These strategies can lead to devastating outcomes for individuals trying to break free.

The church has garnered attention for its unusual practices and a leadership style that includes imposing strict control over members’ finances and social interactions. With California’s history of cult-related tragedies, the public is understandably on edge.

As the investigation unfolds, authorities are focusing on gathering more evidence to understand the full scope of the group’s influence and activities. The situation remains fluid, and police are urging anyone with information to come forward.

Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as law enforcement continues to probe the connections between these tragic incidents and the His Way Spirit Led Assemblies. The safety and well-being of individuals still within the group’s influence are paramount as this investigation progresses.