Urgent Investigation Launched into Deaths Linked to Religious Group

URGENT UPDATE: Authorities have launched a critical investigation into a religious group, His Way Spirit Led Assemblies, following the death of a 4-year-old boy in 2010 and the recent disappearances of two men. The group’s leaders, Darryl Muzic Martin and Shelly Bailey “Kathryn” Martin, are under scrutiny after police raids uncovered illegal weapons, raising alarming concerns about potential cult-like activities.

In a shocking twist, the investigation took a dark turn as officials linked the tragic death of Timothy Thomas to the disappearances of Ruben Moreno, missing since 2019, and Emilio Ghanem, last seen at a Redlands Starbucks in May 2023. Both men were affiliated with the same religious organization, which has been described as secretive and controlling.

Timothy died from septic shock caused by a ruptured appendix while in the care of the Martins, prompting a coroner’s inquiry that suggested the group engaged in “cult-like” practices. Authorities have long suspected the Martins of exerting excessive control over their members, compelling them to relinquish their income to the couple.

In a series of raids on August 15, police confiscated fully automatic rifles and detained a dozen individuals linked to the group in Hemet and Anza. The Martins were also briefly detained at a motel in Laguna Beach but have since been released without charges. The ongoing investigation has reignited public attention on the group, which has operated in California’s Inland Empire since the early 2000s.

Police Sgt. Shawn McFarland revealed that the investigation into Timothy’s death has unveiled disturbing similarities to the behaviors characteristic of cults. Experts in cult psychology, such as Steven Hassan, have noted that groups like His Way Spirit Led Assemblies often isolate members from their families and employ manipulative tactics to maintain control.

Ghanem’s sister raised alarms when he expressed intentions to leave the group in April 2023, aiming to move to Nashville, Tennessee. He faced backlash from the organization after starting a pest control business, which led to a cease-and-desist letter just days before his disappearance.

The shocking nature of these cases has drawn comparisons to past cult tragedies in California, where members have lost their lives due to the extreme control exerted by group leaders. Authorities are now calling for greater awareness and action regarding such organizations and their often devastating impact on individuals.

As the investigation progresses, officials urge anyone with information related to these cases to come forward. The community remains on high alert as the situation develops, and further updates are expected in the coming days.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds.