The 14 texts David Taylor’s attorneys gave judge claiming he did not control call center workers

The 14 Texts David Taylor’s Attorneys Submitted to Court

The legal team defending David Taylor, a self-proclaimed church leader accused of exerting excessive control over his followers, is requesting that the judge reconsider his detention order. They argue that Taylor should be released while awaiting trial.

Last month, a judge denied Taylor’s bond, ruling that keeping him in custody would restrict his communication with church members during ongoing court proceedings.

Charges and Allegations

Taylor and the church’s executive director, Michelle Brannon, face accusations of coercing members in Michigan, Florida, Texas, and Missouri to work without pay while soliciting donations through church-run call centers. Prosecutors alleged that Taylor directed harsh punishments for those who failed to meet donation goals.

Prosecutors claimed Taylor ordered food, sleep, and shelter deprivation, and even the withholding of medical care, to discipline workers.

Defense Argument

In a motion to overturn the detention order, Taylor’s attorneys contended that the text messages cited by prosecutors were taken out of context. They stated the messages were sent during what the church calls a “theological orientation,” or “boot camp.”

His lawyers described the program as “rigorous, but not harmful, and voluntarily attended by every participant.”

Summary

The defense asserts that the alleged orders were misinterpreted training instructions, not abuse, and that Taylor deserves pretrial release while the case proceeds.

Author’s summary: David Taylor’s attorneys maintain that the texts reflect internal church training rather than coercion, seeking his release before trial.

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ClickOnDetroit ClickOnDetroit — 2025-11-06

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