During 2017, many new people became aware of the ongoing, complex and often surreal drama which surrounds Word of Faith Fellowship (WOFF). This is a good reason to recap several important events which happened that brought much more attention to the often secretive and closed “church” in Spindale NC.

Starting February 27th, the Associated Press released the first of several articles which detailed abuses inside of WOFF. “Ex-congregants reveal years of ungodly abuse…” These accounts came from 43 survivors who lived inside WOFF and subsequently left at different times. The testimonials covered by this release and the subsequent articles throughout the year, resulted in a proverbial ongoing “indictment hearing” for the WOFF leadership as well as several local and State officials. The AP’s site (here) serves as the central hub for the many articles, videos and audio files unveiled after almost two years of investigation. The information gleaned from survivor accounts, court documents, recordings and intense research served to alert government officials and thus open several investigations into possible abuses, instances of fraud and wrong doings by WOFF in the United States and Brazil.

March 6th – “Ex-sect members tell AP: Prosecutors obstructed abuse cases“- was the next release which told of meetings inside Jane Whaley’s office where two members who served as Assistant District Attorneys in Burke County were involved in coaching members how to answer questions posed by various investigators. Also, present in these sessions was a church member who served as a social worker in Cleveland County. Not long after the AP release, Frank Webster and Chris Back were no longer employed as Assistant District Attorneys and Lori Cornelius decided to leave her position as a social worker for Cleveland County.

March11th – a Survivor’s Forum was held at the Spindale House. It was standing room only as several survivors told of their time inside WOFF. Several media outlets covered the event. The live stream recording received thousands of views on Facebook.

June 6th- A mistrial was declared in the State vs. Brooke Covington after the jury foreman introduced unauthorized documents into the jury room. The documents were judged as “tainting” any outcome. The jury foreman, Perry Slade was fined $500 and spent 30 days in jail. Mrs. Covington was the first of five WOFF defendants tried in the long running Matthew Fenner case. Judge Gavenus issued a gag order simultaneously with the mistrial. The gag order has been modified to allow an investigation by State officials into the events. As of March 31, 2018, the gag order will expire.

Later, a motion filed by Judge Marvin Pope moved four trials to Buncombe County. Also, in a more recent Motion filed by District Attorney Ted Bell, he requested an indefinite continuance. This Motion has yet to be heard. The reason for the delay includes the ongoing investigations by several State and Federal agencies into WOFF. (link here)

June 26th- AP released an article documenting local officials in Rutherford County delaying their initial investigation of Matthew Fenner’s abuse claims. Secret recordings of then District Attorney Brad Greenway and Sheriff Chris Francis document the confusion and delay.

July 24th, The AP released “They kept us as slaves…” an account of ex-members from Brazil telling of a “human pipeline” of young folks who labored in church-leaders homes and church-member owned companies for little to no pay. This account attracted the interest of a large news outlet in Brazil- Globo.com. This news outlet sent reporters to North Carolina to find out more. The resulting news release added fuel to the fire already started by the Brazilian and American AP. Later news reports told that officials in Brazil were taking the allegations seriously and were in touch with the U.S. Department of Justice.

August 21st- Congressman Patrick McHenry held a town hall meeting at Isothermal Community College. In answer to questions about his knowledge of the ongoing investigations into WOFF; he claimed to be ONLY able to make speeches and introduce legislation. He said he was a private citizen and not briefed about the situation. All of these comments were made in conjunction with reports of how he strives to help his constituents who seek help from several governmental agencies. He did not see the obvious conflict in his statements because his political life is based on “helping” those who vote for him. It was also noted his warm and personal greetings to each WOFF member who approached him after the meeting. (post)

September 25th- “…Church stoked tithing with unemployment scam…” As if the surreal religious subculture could hold no more secrets, the AP reported accounts of former members outlining what the leader, Jane Whaley, called “God’s plan.” The church-member owned businesses were told by the person claiming to be the voice of God, to file fraudulent unemployment claims in order for the tithes to continue and the businesses to survive. This caused many to shake their head in disbelief.

November 13th- During the early morning hours the AP released two related stories. One titled: “Ex-members say church uses power, lies to keep grip on kids.” The article outlined the process used by a long-time WOFF member serving as a county court clerk, Laura Bridges to bypass the foster care system and obtain custody of children from three single mothers. This article also included the Shana Muse story. It was a long emotional read, but extremely valid to understanding the WOFF saga.

Also, on November 13th,”Investigators face big hurdles in church child abuse cases...” a story was released outlining the hurdles to prudent child protection which local social workers face when investigating abuse claims involving WOFF children. The Compromised Settlement which was a result of the 2003 civil action filed by WOFF against the Rutherford County Department of Social Services (RCDSS) and three employees has served as a barrier since 2005. This story and the resulting public outcry resulted in calls for the resignation of RCDSS Director John Carroll.

Shortly after this article dropped, I sent an email to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NC DHHS) as they provide oversight for local DSSs. That very afternoon, I received a call from Assistant Secretary of the NC DHHS, Michael Becketts. He requested a face to face meeting to hear what I thought was going on in Rutherford County. This meeting was held on December 18th. In a closed door session with Mr. Becketts and Assistant General Counsel Julie Cronin, I expressed my concerns. They both listened and also expressed their firm position that the NC DHHS is not bound by the Compromised Settlement. Previous to this meeting, a new relationship protocol was put in place for RCDSS as they review complaints of abuse or neglect involving WOFF children. The NC DHHS will now review information and case files of all complaints of abuse involving WOFF children, those acted upon locally and those that are not.

December 14th- The AP released an article outlining the story of former WOFF-member- Jamey Anderson. “No one saved us…” Jamey told of his time on church discipline and the horrors that came with it. His struggles after leaving WOFF were punctuated by recent false trespassing charges filed by his brother who remained a WOFF member. The charges were dismissed, but not before Jamey suffered reputational damage. It was a sad comment on the legal process in Rutherford County.

This story was the appropriate ending to the year-long “indictment hearing” provided by the investigative team of the AP.

December 20th- The RCDSS at the monthly Board meeting heard from some folks during the public comment time who were not happy with John Carroll’s decisions. Also, several WOFF members crooned his praises. If he wore boots that day, I am sure they were shiny when he left.

During 2017, Spindale’s small town sleepy atmosphere was replaced with an ongoing intense cloud of disbelief and shock. Many local residents became aware for the first time of the abuses, misdeeds, and legal shenanigans which have festered and grown pervasive behind the lily white doors of the WOFF sanctuary. The sheen doesn’t always equal clean. The shine doesn’t mean all is fine.

In response to the growing information provided by the AP, Rccatalyst.com, WSPA, WSOC and other media outlets, WOFF teamed up with their radio pal – WCAB 590AM. Jim Bishop and WCAB have run WOFF member-owned business commercials for a while. This radio station has also served as a platform for WOFF-member Gilbert Carmona’s tax show.

WOFF pays for air time 8:30AM to 9:00AM – Monday, Wednesday and Friday. This started in December and except for this past Monday- the show has been live-stream on the WCAB YouTube channel. The shows are archived.

Let me take this opportunity to thank Karel Reynolds, Mark Morris, my ex-wife and my son for being so kind to review my book, “Locked in.” I know that does not mean you read it- freely. Nonetheless, you did tell the radio audience how much you think I “lied” in my book. This will only serve to make regular folks curious to read for themselves. I appreciate you getting the word out to the good folks who listen to radio. That is one media source I had not considered. Thank you!

And yet, the daily drama/trauma of WOFF-life continues…

What does 2018 hold as a follow-up?

Follow this blog on Twitter- @religiouscults
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Thank you, for taking time to visit and read this blog. Please, consume the information on this site responsibly. The author is not a licensed mental health professional and encourages those that need professional help to seek it. The intent of the material is to inform and be a resource. Be sure to tell every member that you know at WOFF about this blog. There are readers at WOFF. Jane told me and Josh confirmed it.

Comments are invited from all readers, including present or former members. Polls are not scientific and no private information is gathered.

Look on the right side of any post for the option to subscribe by email for notifications or RSS feeds notifying of new postings. It is a great feature. Also, find more posts by selecting “Categories”.

Guest posts reflect the opinions of the writers. Their opinions do not necessarily reflect the opinions of John Huddle or any other persons affiliated with this blog.

Please, take time to read the Terms of Use for this personal blog. As mentioned, for posts written by John Huddle, any information about WOFF is from his memories and recollections as perfect as that may be or not be.

Scripture references are Amplified Version unless otherwise noted.

(Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation ) This is post number 625.

Following the predictably unpredictable theme, on Wednesday of this week, Brian Oglesby filed a Motion to Withdraw as counsel for Adam Bartley. Attorney Thomas Amburgey filed a Notice of Appearance to represent Bartley and a Motion for Continuance. Judge Marvin Pope scheduled a hearing on the Motion for Continuance for Friday at 2:00PM, in the Buncombe County courtroom on the ninth floor.

This development came less than two weeks before the trial for Adam Bartley was set to start on October 23rd. The Rccatalyst.com reported this update on Thursday with several documents provided in the article to show the steps leading up to Friday’s hearing.

These proceedings stem from incidents on January 27, 2013 in the Word of Faith Fellowship (WOFF) sanctuary in which Matthew Fenner alleges he was assaulted, held against his will and strangled. The indictments handed down in January 2015 were against Brooke M. Covington, Sarah Anderson, Justin Covington, Robert Lewis Walker, Jr. and Adam Bartley. After many pre-trial motions which included a disqualification of Farmer and Morris as counsel for any of the defendants, Brooke Covington’s trial commenced earlier this year. Unauthorized documents introduced into the jury room by the jury foreman caused Judge Gavenus to declare a mistrial followed by a gag order on those involved in that trial. The jury foreman also spent 30 days in jail and was fined $500.00. The Associated Press filed suit to remove the gag order. To date, the gag order remains in place and blocking investigators from performing any inquiries into the jury foreman’s actions.

Friday was not my first trip to the Buncombe County courthouse. However, the last trip was so long ago, it felt like the first time. I found a metered parking place near the front of the courthouse and deposited change to buy just a little over an hour. The maximum you could buy was two hours. (after the hearing, I noticed a parking garage across the street which may be an option for next time. ) Though I parked at the front of the courthouse, the entrance is around to the left side of the building. Immediately upon entering, I passed through security and asked directions to the ninth floor. Walking through a couple of different hallways, I found the golden elevators. During my stroll through to the elevators, I found it odd to not see anyone I recognized. Was the hearing postponed?

The elevator doors opened just as the doors to the ninth floor courtroom were opened by a uniformed officer. The attorney’s involved walked in ahead of me to take their positions. Adam Bartley promptly took his seat next to his attorney. This court house allowed cell phones; this allowed the two uniformed officers time to play on their phone as we all waited for the Judge to enter the room. I double checked mine to verify it was off. The courtroom had a very small gallery area compared to other courtrooms. There were framed United States and North Carolina flags hanging behind the judge’s chair as well as one of each flag on a pole behind the judge’s elevated podium. The court workers gathered correct spellings of all of the involved parties in a very relaxed atmosphere. I moved up closer so I could see the clock while taking notes. Oddly, no WOFF leadership were in court to support Bartley, not even DeWitt Prince.

Judge Pope entered the courtroom shortly after the top of the hour. After we all were seated, he addressed Adam Bartley’s attorney, Mr. Amburgey for him to begin his argument. Attorney Amburgey began by outlining his initial contact with Adam Bartley and his then attorney Brian Oglesby. Mr. Oglesby was appointed as a public defender earlier this year after Mr. Bartley was declared an indigent. Amburgey outlined in detail his efforts over this past week to contact District Attorney Ted Bell’s office in order to start a dialogue about the case. His comments noted Mr. Oglesby was not ready for trial and that Mr. Bartley had a right to choose his counsel. Once he had access to the discovery, he would be ready “as soon as possible.”

Judge Pope then turned to Assistant District Attorney Garland Byers for his reply. Byers pointed out this would be Bartley’s fifth attorney and after several discussions with Oglesby, he believed Oglesby was ready for trial. Byers said the right to counsel is a “qualified right”, not “an absolute right”, adding the State of North Carolina makes this very clear. He went on to say he would abide by the court’s decision reminding the Judge this was the oldest case on his list, five years this coming January since the incident occurred.

Judge Pope turned to Amburgey asking when he might be ready to go to trial. “I have no real idea,”he replied, adding – six weeks was ambitious, possibly (ready) by the end of the year. Pope clarified some matters with Byers and threw out December 4th as a possible date to begin. Byers pointed out he had a pending murder trial set for December 11th. December dates did not seem like a good fit for the case’s already set for his office.

Judge Pope suggested January 2, 2018 to which both attorneys agreed. Adam Bartley’s trial will start the first Tuesday of 2018. I saw no discernable reaction positive or negative from Bartley over this entire series of events.

Next, there was some discussion about which trial would called for October 23rd. Byers assured the Judge that Attorney Cates representing Robert Lewis Walker, Jr. was ready and this seemed to please the Judge. He was glad that this case could move forward this month.

Judge Marvin Pope earlier filed a Change of Venue for four of the trials, all except Brooke Covington’s. Today’s hearing could be the first of many sessions in Buncombe County in order for these cases to be tried. It Is not clear if today’s courtroom will serve for the rest of the trials, if so, the gallery space will be limited.

Follow this blog on Twitter- @religiouscults
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Thank you, for taking time to visit and read this blog. Please, consume the information on this site responsibly. The author is not a licensed mental health professional and encourages those that need professional help to seek it. The intent of the material is to inform and be a resource. Be sure to tell every member that you know at WOFF about this blog. There are readers at WOFF. Jane told me and Josh confirmed it.

Comments are invited from all readers, including present or former members. Polls are not scientific and no private information is gathered.

Look on the right side of any post for the option to subscribe by email for notifications or RSS feeds notifying of new postings. It is a great feature. Also, find more posts by selecting “Categories”.

Guest posts reflect the opinions of the writers. Their opinions do not necessarily reflect the opinions of John Huddle or any other persons affiliated with this blog.

Please, take time to read the Terms of Use for this personal blog. As mentioned, for posts written by John Huddle, any information about WOFF is from his memories and recollections as perfect as that may be or not be.

Scripture references are Amplified Version unless otherwise noted.

(Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation ) This is post number 618.

This case stems from incidents on January 27, 2013 in which Fenner alleges he was beaten and strangled during a blasting deliverance prayer session inside the Word of Faith Fellowship (WOFF) sanctuary. Five indictments against former and present members have been the subject of a rolling sea of pretrial motions, appeals, a disqualification of counsel and a mistrial. The mistrial occurred this past June in the trial of Brooke Covington. Presiding Judge Gavenous placed a gag order which still impedes the investigation into the mechanics on how unauthorized documents were delivered into the jury room and subsequently lead to the declaration of a mistrial. The jury foreman spent 30 days in jail and was fined $500 for the conduct.

The list of defendants includes Brooke Covington, Justin Covington, Sarah Anderson, Robert Lewis Walker, Jr. and Adam Bartley. The charges include first degree assault and second degree kidnapping for all, as well as the charge of inflicting injury by strangulation against Sarah Anderson.

Today’s hearing was short and to the point. I learned that Judge Pope requested Assistant District Attorney Garland Byers to draw up and order which moves four of the cases to Buncombe County. Brooke Covington’s case was not moved at this time, though her counsel, David Teddy was in court today. Byers will coordinate with the District Attorney’s office in Buncombe County to obtain court dates. Judge Pope was very deliberate and forthright after hearing statements from a few of the counselors in this case.

There are several advantages to moving the trials. Judge Pope will preside over the session in December. There is a larger jury pool with theoretically a more diverse perspective. In my opinion, moving the trial will not hinder local, state, national or international coverage of this saga. Considering the correlating investigations and plot lines already unearthed by the Associated Press since February, the attention will be magnified regardless of the location of the trials. You can count on it.

In other news surrounding the WOFF drama, President Trump nominated District Attorney for Mecklenburg County, Andrew Murray, for the U.S. Attorney position in Western North Carolina. Upon Senate confirmation, he could assume the post immediately. The future of Jill Rose having served as acting U.S. Attorney since October 2015 is unclear. We would hope in order to continue the consistency of the ongoing investigation that she would stay on as an assistant. This remains to be seen.

The entire scene surrounding WOFF has been and remains predictably unpredictable. Jane Whaley was in court today and escorted from the grounds by Attorney Mark Morris. Adam Bartley with his shaved head and nice suit was escorted from the courthouse by prison ministry ministers and faithful WOFF-operatives, DeWitt and Andra Prince. Just how much Bartley has been readmitted into the WOFF sub-culture is not known. For now, he appears very “Woffy”.

Could there be a December to remember for former members of WOFF? Will there be more drama surrounding WOFF practices before the end of year? It is predictably unpredictable, agree?

Follow this blog on Twitter- @religiouscults
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/johnhuddleauthor

Thank you, for taking time to visit and read this blog. Please, consume the information on this site responsibly. The author is not a licensed mental health professional and encourages those that need professional help to seek it. The intent of the material is to inform and be a resource. Be sure to tell every member that you know at WOFF about this blog. There are readers at WOFF. Jane told me and Josh confirmed it.

Comments are invited from all readers, including present or former members. Polls are not scientific and no private information is gathered.

Look on the right side of any post for the option to subscribe by email for notifications or RSS feeds notifying of new postings. It is a great feature. Also, find more posts by selecting “Categories”.

Guest posts reflect the opinions of the writers. Their opinions do not necessarily reflect the opinions of John Huddle or any other persons affiliated with this blog.

Please, take time to read the Terms of Use for this personal blog. As mentioned, for posts written by John Huddle, any information about WOFF is from his memories and recollections as perfect as that may be or not be.

Scripture references are Amplified Version unless otherwise noted.

(Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation ) This is post number 616.

-Motion for Continuance
-Motion for Fenner to produce recordings
-Motion for Change of Venue by Teddy

In a related matter, Judge Gavenus as the originator of the gag order set in place after the mistrial on June 6th in the State versus Brooke Covington trial – has agreed to review the pending motion to lift the order filed by the Associated Press and the Charlotte Observer. He will also review the motion filed by the State to partially lift the gag order so the investigation into the introduction of unauthorized documents into the jury room by the jury foreman can proceed. Judge Gavenus is asking for the supporting documents to be submitted on or before August 1st.

The court calendar lists the State versus Adam Bartley for September 11th. Bartley is one of the Famous Five defendants who all were members of the Word of Faith Fellowship (WOFF) on January 27, 2013, the date Matthew Fenner alleges he was assaulted and held against his will in a deliverance session in the WOFF sanctuary. The other four include: Brooke Covington, Justin Covington, Sarah Anderson, and Robert Louis Walker, Jr. Since the incident date, Bartley and Sarah Anderson have left WOFF.

In an email from ADA Garland Byers to Bartley’s defense attorney Robert Denton, Byers says the “…it now appears unlikely the State will be able to call Brooke Covington’s case for trial due to Mr. Teddy’s medical situation.” The medical situation is not explained, but has now prompted Byers to alert Denton that Adam Bartley’s case will be called in September. Denton asks for a continuance and Byers explains his reasoning for not agreeing but allowing the court to decide if a continuance in Bartley’s case is warranted.

So, what do we know for sure? The journey for justice is long and has many curves, hills and valleys. We have no idea where it leads or how long it will take to arrive. We have learned to expect the unexpected. What may happen before July 28th? We shall see.

Follow this blog on Twitter- @religiouscults
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/johnhuddleauthor

Thank you, for taking time to visit and read this blog. Please, consume the information on this site responsibly. The author is not a licensed mental health professional and encourages those that need professional help to seek it. The intent of the material is to inform and be a resource. Be sure to tell every member that you know at WOFF about this blog. There are readers at WOFF. Jane told me and Josh confirmed it.

Comments are invited from all readers, including present or former members. Polls are not scientific and no private information is gathered.

Look on the right side of any post for the option to subscribe by email for notifications or RSS feeds notifying of new postings. It is a great feature. Also, find more posts by selecting “Categories”.

Guest posts reflect the opinions of the writers. Their opinions do not necessarily reflect the opinions of John Huddle or any other persons affiliated with this blog.

Please, take time to read the Terms of Use for this personal blog. As mentioned, for posts written by John Huddle, any information about WOFF is from his memories and recollections as perfect as that may be or not be.

Scripture references are Amplified Version unless otherwise noted.

(Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation ) This is post number 609.

Attorney David Teddy filed a Motion for Continuance citing his preplanned vacation to Ireland during July and the necessity of reviewing transcripts from the first trial adding the expedited costs would run around $5,000. Assistant District Attorney Garland Byers said the Rule for such declaring reasons for a Continuance had not been properly met.

The result so far includes the latest date for trial in the State of North Carolina versus Brooke Covington is now set for September 11, 2017. I don’t know yet who the judge is for that judicial session. It will be interesting to learn and watch the events unfold through the summer.

As an observer, I understand the time and expense for obtaining a transcription of the first trial. My caution is that in an effort to expedite, that the assigned court reporter, Leanna Lynch, does not ask anyone affiliated with Word of Faith Fellowship (WOFF) to help in the completion of the request- for obvious reasons. Bridges Court Reporting is owned by Laura R. Bridges. She is a faithful WOFF member at last count having previously worked inside the Rutherford County Courthouse. There may be guidelines already in place to prevent such a mistake. I am not sure, but just wanted to make known my concerns.

The case stems from incidents on January 27, 2013 in the sanctuary and foyer of WOFF. Matthew Fenner alleges he was assaulted and moved against his will from which in January 2015 indictments for simple assault, second-degree kidnapping were filed against Brooke Covington, Sarah Anderson, Justin Covington, Robert Lewis Walker, Jr. and Adam Bartley. An additional count of inflicting injury through strangulation was filed against Sarah Anderson.

After many months of pre-trial motions, attorney disqualification and appeals, the first trial of Brooke Covington earlier this spring ended in a mistrial after a juror delivered unapproved documents into the jury room. The juror, Perry Shade, was sentenced to thirty days in jail and a $500 fine for his actions. Today’s post is giving details of the ongoing events after the mistrial.

Also, with a heavy heart, I share the sad news of the passing of Rev. Robert “Bobby” Rape, Matthew’s grandfather. I count it an honor and joy to have known Bobby. In every encounter with him, he was a soft spoken, caring and loving man; a gentle soul. The online obituary is here. The gathering will be Tuesday at Harrelson’s Funeral Home with visitation at 6:00PM and the service to follow at 7:00PM.

Life is too short no matter the number of days. Hug your family and friends, tell them you love them and count each day as a gift. For those who pray- remember Matthew’s family during the days and weeks ahead.

Follow this blog on Twitter- @religiouscults
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/johnhuddleauthor

Thank you, for taking time to visit and read this blog. Please, consume the information on this site responsibly. The author is not a licensed mental health professional and encourages those that need professional help to seek it. The intent of the material is to inform and be a resource. Be sure to tell every member that you know at WOFF about this blog. There are readers at WOFF. Jane told me and Josh confirmed it.

Comments are invited from all readers, including present or former members. Polls are not scientific and no private information is gathered.

Look on the right side of any post for the option to subscribe by email for notifications or RSS feeds notifying of new postings. It is a great feature. Also, find more posts by selecting “Categories”.

Guest posts reflect the opinions of the writers. Their opinions do not necessarily reflect the opinions of John Huddle or any other persons affiliated with this blog.

Please, take time to read the Terms of Use for this personal blog. As mentioned, for posts written by John Huddle, any information about WOFF is from his memories and recollections as perfect as that may be or not be.

Scripture references are Amplified Version unless otherwise noted.

(Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation ) This is post number 607.

Today was yet another small chapter in the ongoing saga of the Matthew Fenner case. Events from January 27, 2013 are in question. Five present and former WOFF members were formally indicted in January 2015. The indictments against Brooke Covington, Justin Covington and Robert Lewis Walker, Jr. who are still members and Adam Bartley and Sarah Anderson, former members; include second degree kidnapping, first degree assault and one count of inflicting injury by attempted strangulation. After initially attempting to represent all five defendants, WOFF attorneys Joshua Farmer, Mark Morris and all their associates were disqualified by Judge Pope in August 2015.

As a result, all five defendants have separate counsel. Brooke Covington is represented by David Teddy. Justin Covington is represented by Krinn Evans. Robert Lewis Walker, Jr. is represented by Matthew Cabe. Sarah Covington is represented by the Cooper Firm. Adam Bartley is represented by Robert Denton who also represents Nicholas Anderson in his civil case for divorce and custody against Sarah. All five defendants and their counsel were present today.

Now, back to the hearing….

Assistant District Attorney Garland Byers was addressing the issue at hand. Brooke Covington was seated at the defendants table as her attorney, David Teddy, stood to participate in the discussion. Her demeanor was pensive from my view.

Unlike previous meetings, this hearing had a faster pace in part because there was potentially so much on the table. The back and forth questions, answers and reasoning was very lively. I will present a recap of the main points and more than likely will not get them in exact order.

As Byers pleaded his stance that the Judge remain for the duration, Judge Pope commented he had not found any legal precedence for requiring such an arrangement. However, he did offer a solution. He drew upon a previous situation in which multiple defendants had requested he hear all their cases. At that time, he required the each defendant under their own counsel sign a statement agreeing to such. He required this written agreement in hopes of not allowing the arrangement to be grounds for an appeal if a defendant felt they were unfairly tried. His caution was on behalf of each defendant and the State.

The outcome today was similar. Judge Pope gave the defendants and their attorneys ten days to decide if they all agree he could/should hear each case. This agreement is important as it also came out in court the State intends to try each defendant separately with Brooke Covington’s trial first up. During the hearing, Byers revealed that his calendar was full until April of 2017.

Judge Pope lamented his thoughts that this will be a contentious case especially with each trial being a jury trial. He did also express his pleasure that each defendant will be tried separately. He estimated a five day period for each defendant’s trial. As a disclaimer, he said he had not viewed the 2017 judicial calendar and did not know where he would be assigned yet.

Is it likely all five attorneys will agree enough to put it in writing? Who knows at this point? It is also not clear if they don’t agree how that will affect the timetable for the prosecution of the case. Will each defendant be in front of whom ever the judge is for that session?

Somewhere during the hearing, Judge Pope held up an envelope which contained the “evidence” requested from WOFF so many months ago. Each attorney would have access in due time. I have it on very good sources that the evidence is a sanitized version of a memorial service and maybe a wedding or baby dedication. No surprise that WOFF did not feel compelled to give over video of a hot and heavy raucous deliverance session.

Next, the Change of Venue was discussed. Each attorney in turn with the defendant was called to state their preference on the motion filed by the Disqualified Josh Farmer and Mark Morris. Generally, four of the five attorneys said they reserve the right to amend the motion with one possibly replacing it with another original motion. Micah Cooper, representing Sarah Anderson basically said she was not concerned with the Motion or pushing the trial out of Rutherford County. With five trials before us, could there be five separate locations or would they all have to agree on the venue? Not sure.

One point to note, the attorney representing Justin Covington, Krinn Evans, did elaborate and list the RcCatalyst and other social media sources as a reason to move away from Rutherford County. He wanted a right to amend the Motion if needed. Looking over the original Motion, I did not readily find the RcCatalyst in the sources quoted by Farmer. The original motion listed major television and newspaper coverage. Does this tell us who has carried the banner of alarm concerning this case in recent months? Thank you, Mr. Evans for making the point!

I don’t recall the Change of Venire being addressed as that Motion was originally put forth by the State as a solution to the venue question. We shall see if it needs further discussion as the weeks and month roll on.

Bantered about during the discussion was mention of a “Bill of Particulars.” I am working on finding out more about that document and it purpose.

And what would a day in court be without some underlying fireworks between WOFF leadership and former members? Somewhere during the session, Sarah tried to pass her brother, Justin, a note. (He has been in timeout with no cell phone or car privileges.) I was told he dropped the note. The exact contents of the note I don’t know, but feel sure it was loving affirmation from his sister. I don’t believe she would waste her time giving him stock picks or asking about his favorite NFL team, right?

Apparently, some WOFF member picked up the note and must have showed it to the Queen(s) for the Day, Jayne Caudler and Karel Reynolds. As I was standing with Micah and Sarah outside in the top steps of the courthouse, DeWitt Prince opened the door in royal fashion to allow the Queens and their entourage to pass. Sarah shouted, Love you, Justin! To which Queen Caulder snarled something like we left your trash its back inside! (referring to her note)

Honestly, it sounded so petty and snarky. I did not hear any love of God from the group that teaches against bullying! Oh, my!

[Originally, I wrongly identified Karel as the commenting Queen. My apologies to Jayne Caulder for not recognizing position and her unique gift of kindness and compassion. She does set a good example reflecting the one from whom she learned her relationship skills. Yes, there were two Queens on Thursday.)

And to round out the show of love and good manners, as I left I chose to pass by Queen Karel, Justin and the young lady who I don’t know her name. Once they saw me approaching on the sidewalk, they immediately turned their back to me as if on command. I chuckled. I felt this along with Krinn’s comments must have meant I was doing something right. Thank you, Karel. You reminded me why I left WOFF over eight years ago. Honestly, I don’t bite.

I would be remiss if I did not mention that I witnessed a Josh Farmer sighting. He was in the foyer after the hearing on the other side of the Christmas tree talking with Matthew Cabe and Robert Denton. No, I could not hear what they were saying, but I feel certain it was not about their personal Christmas wish list. If this does not violate the letter of the ORDER of Disqualification, could it violate the spirit of the ORDER?

Well, we shall see.

Follow this blog on Twitter- @religiouscults and

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/johnhuddleauthor

Thank you, for taking time to visit and read this blog. Please, consume the information on this site responsibly. The author is not a licensed mental health professional and encourages those that need professional help to seek it. The intent of the material is to inform and be a resource. Be sure to tell every member that you know at WOFF about this blog. There are readers at WOFF. Jane told me and Josh confirmed it.

Comments are invited from all readers, including present or former members. Polls are not scientific and no private information is gathered.

Look on the right side of any post for the option to subscribe by email for notifications or RSS feeds notifying of new postings. It is a great feature. Also, find more posts by selecting “Categories”.

Guest posts reflect the opinions of the writers. Their opinions do not necessarily reflect the opinions of John Huddle or any other persons affiliated with this blog.

Please, take time to read the Terms of Use for this personal blog. As mentioned, for posts written by John Huddle, any information about WOFF is from his memories and recollections as perfect as that may be or not be.

Scripture references are Amplified Version unless otherwise noted. (Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation ) This is post number 582.

Several events have colored this year with surprise and even shock. Unfortunately, the conclusion of the Matthew Fenner case has not been one of them. We roll our hopes forward to 2017. The next step in the process will be this Thursday, December 8th.

Rccatalyst.com recently reported the notice filed by Assistant District Attorney Garland Byers requesting four of the five defendants to appear and address pre-trial motions. Adam Bartley’s attorney, Robert Denton will not be available for the hearing and was not listed in the announcement.

This case stems from events of January 27, 2013 inside the sanctuary of Word of Faith Fellowship (WOFF). Matthew alleges during a session of blasting deliverance prayer he was held against his will and assaulted including an attempt to strangle him. This form of prayer has been a controversial signature practice of WOFF since its inception over thirty years ago.

Five defendants indicted in January 2015 include present church members: Brooke Covington, Justin Covington and Robert Lewis Walker, Jr. Defendants Sarah Anderson and Adam Bartley are now previous members. Pre-trial motions and rulings relieved WOFF attorneys, Joshua Farmer, Mark Morris and any of their associates from representing any of the five defendants. The Order of Disqualification against WOFF attorneys from Judge Marvin Pope issued in August 2015 survived an appeal attempt filed by Farmer which he subsequently withdrew upon Sarah’s exit from WOFF in February 2016.

These past few months have been filled with hopes for justice held in check by the ebb and flow of the judicial preference for the Honorable Judge Marvin Pope to hear this case. The Motion for Judge Pope to hear this case until final resolution will be heard Thursday. Additionally, determination to pursue or abandon motions for a Change of Venue and Change of Venire previously filed by Farmer will be reviewed by the attorneys involved to obtain their official stance. A change of venue could move the trial to another county. A change of venire could change the jury pool to another county. Either motion if granted would change the complexion of the case.

The months this case has been on hold have not been without drama. Matthew has survived attempts to depose him in unrelated cases. All have been efforts to intimidate and discourage him. Yet, the wheels of justice are still in place and may begin to roll this coming week. Will there be more surprises before the case is concluded? Expect the unexpected as long as WOFF is involved as the stakes are high. In reality, it is not just the five defendants on trial, but the signature practice of blasting prayer along with the leader and founder of WOFF- Jane Whaley have been and will continue to be under the microscope. Will the public view a demonstration of loud prayer before this is over? We can only hope. Any volunteers to help in a demonstration of WOFF-deliverance?

Follow this blog on Twitter- @religiouscults and

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/johnhuddleauthor

Thank you, for taking time to visit and read this blog. Please, consume the information on this site responsibly. The author is not a licensed mental health professional and encourages those that need professional help to seek it. The intent of the material is to inform and be a resource. Be sure to tell every member that you know at WOFF about this blog. There are readers at WOFF. Jane told me and Josh confirmed it.

Comments are invited from all readers, including present or former members. Polls are not scientific and no private information is gathered.

Look on the right side of any post for the option to subscribe by email for notifications or RSS feeds notifying of new postings. It is a great feature. Also, find more posts by selecting “Categories”.

Guest posts reflect the opinions of the writers. Their opinions do not necessarily reflect the opinions of John Huddle or any other persons affiliated with this blog.

Please, take time to read the Terms of Use for this personal blog. As mentioned, for posts written by John Huddle, any information about WOFF is from his memories and recollections as perfect as that may be or not be.

Scripture references are Amplified Version unless otherwise noted. (Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation ) This is post number 580.

Let’s not be too concerned. This case will be heard. It may not be in the time frame that many desire or with procedures we are all familiar with; but the charges against Brooke Covington, Justin Covington, Sarah Covington Anderson, Robert Lewis Walker, Jr and Adam Bartley will be resolved. Matthew Fenner will have an answer as to the charges filed over the incident on January 27, 2013 in the sanctuary of Word of Faith Fellowship (WOFF).

The signature practice of loud prayer and deliverance from WOFF may be on demonstration in the Rutherford County courtroom before these cases are complete. Okay, that will be the day for any and all who are curious to pack the courtroom and witness the controversial “secretive practice” which has been a lightning rod for controversy since 1995 when Inside Edition showed video taken inside WOFF. How can we forget? Why should we ignore it?

When all is said and done with this case, there will be a judgment handed down by proxy on WOFF, loud deliverance prayer and the ministry of Jane Whaley and her top leadership. Yes, five individuals are charged with various levels of crimes, but in the end — Jane Whaley is on trial and she knows it.

Did anyone mention how hot the month of August will be in Spindale?

Follow this blog on Twitter- @religiouscults and

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/johnhuddleauthor

Thank you, for taking time to visit and read this blog. Please, consume the information on this site responsibly. The author is not a licensed mental health professional and encourages those that need professional help to seek it. The intent of the material is to inform and be a resource. Be sure to tell every member that you know at WOFF about this blog. There are readers at WOFF. Jane told me and Josh confirmed it.

Comments are invited from all readers, including present or former members. Polls are not scientific and no private information is gathered.

Look on the right side of any post for the option to subscribe by email for notifications or RSS feeds notifying of new postings. It is a great feature. Also, find more posts by selecting “Categories”.

Guest posts reflect the opinions of the writers. Their opinions do not necessarily reflect the opinions of John Huddle or any other persons affiliated with this blog.

Please, take time to read the Terms of Use for this personal blog. As mentioned, for posts written by John Huddle, any information about WOFF is from his memories and recollections as perfect as that may be or not be.

Scripture references are Amplified Version unless otherwise noted. (Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation ) This is post number 573.

Sources close to the case relayed the glee displayed by Ray Farmer when he knew Sarah was apprehended and on her way to the courthouse. The overt displayed of joy at Sarah’s plight portrays in actions what many have known for years. The philosophy and modus operandi of WOFF has been to initiate as much pain and emotional distress as possible on those who dare leave and tell their secrets. If prophesying doom and harm will not work for those who consider leaving, then put actions to your predictions and make it hard for a defector to assume or resume a normal life. Sounds like the kind of healthy Christian love we all want-right?

Sarah secured a replacement bond and was not detained for any length of time at the courthouse. Ray’s goal of inflicting a night of complete embarrassment and emotional pain was averted for the most part.

Sarah Anderson is one of five defendants who have been charged in the incidents taking place January 27, 2013 inside the sanctuary of Word of Faith Fellowship. Matthew Fenner alleges he was held against his will, assaulted and strangled during a “deliverance” session inside WOFF. Additional defendants in the case include Brooke Covington, Justin Covington, Robert Lewis Walker, Jr., and Adam Bartley. The practice of “blasting and deliverance” has been the signature practice of WOFF for over thirty years. In previous court findings and reports in different media sources, the practice has been credited for several members’ emotional and physical trauma.

Hopefully, Adam Bartley and his attorney Robert Denton are taking note of the WOFF strategy. ADA Byers has warned of this option in previous court proceedings. WOFF has the upper hand until each secured bond is replaced for each of the four remaining defendants. For certain Robert Lewis Walker,, Jr., Justin Covington and even Brooke Covington should consider a new source for their bond.

On Saturday, Rccatalyst.com also reported more details about the “Status Conference” calendared by Assistant District Attorney Garland Byers.

“In a letter to the Administrative Office of the Courts in Raleigh, Byers requests Judge Pope’s presence for a single day, July 29, 2016. “

The article tells of the State’s inquiry of the motions entered by the now disqualified attorneys, Josh Farmer and Mark Morris. Farmer and Morris were the original counsel for the WOFF members in Fenner case. The review will determine if the motions, including a change of venue, will be “pursued, modified or abandoned.”

In the Daily Courier’s report of the hearing ADA Byers is quoted as saying, “New lawyers change the dynamics of same cases.” “We have a whole new line up of motions and will modify them.” The article went on the report Byers saying it would be months before this case came to trial.

The statement from Byers is not a welcome one, but he knows more about the timing of this trial. Meanwhile, 2016 is still the year for changes inside and outside of WOFF. Stay tuned for more excitement in the weeks and months to come.

Follow this blog on Twitter- @religiouscults and

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/johnhuddleauthor

Thank you, for taking time to visit and read this blog. Please, consume the information on this site responsibly. The author is not a licensed mental health professional and encourages those that need professional help to seek it. The intent of the material is to inform and be a resource. Be sure to tell every member that you know at WOFF about this blog. There are readers at WOFF. Jane told me and Josh confirmed it.

Comments are invited from all readers, including present or former members. Polls are not scientific and no private information is gathered.

Look on the right side of any post for the option to subscribe by email for notifications or RSS feeds notifying of new postings. It is a great feature. Also, find more posts by selecting “Categories”.

Guest posts reflect the opinions of the writers. Their opinions do not necessarily reflect the opinions of John Huddle or any other persons affiliated with this blog.

Please, take time to read the Terms of Use for this personal blog. As mentioned, for posts written by John Huddle, any information about WOFF is from his memories and recollections as perfect as that may be or not be.

Scripture references are Amplified Version unless otherwise noted. (Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation ) This is post number 572.

The hearing on Monday would have been the first in this case since August of last year. Five defendants, who were at the time of the alleged incidents members of Word of Faith Fellowship (WOFF), face varied charges including second degree kidnapping, simple assault and one for assault by strangulation. These defendants are Brooke Covington, Justin Covington, Sarah Covington Anderson, Robert Lewis Walker, JR. and Adam Bartley.

Matthew Fenner alleges that on January 27, 2013, he was assaulted in the sanctuary of WOFF during a “deliverance” session. The five defendants were named and indicted in December 2014 after an initial hearing. Once the new District Attorney Ted Bell took office in January 2015, he set aside those indictments amid rumors of improper procedures and possible witness tampering and presented the evidence to a second grand jury. This session secured for the State a set of indictments which Bell described as clean true bills of indictment. [ Timeline for this case – here.]

Pretrial motions and hearings resulted in Judge Marvin Pope signing an ORDER of Disqualification against Tomblin, Farmer and Morris (Josh Farmer and Mark Morris) and their associates. This ORDER barred the named attorneys, who were WOFF members, from representing any of the five defendants. Several pretrial motions have yet to be resolved including a motion for change of venue and a change of venire. One issue not addressed by the Court up to this point; WOFF holds the secured bond for all five defendants. This fact has been noted in court documents, but not addressed or corrected. This anomaly gives WOFF a set of choices which could affect the defendants in a less than positive fashion.

While this newest delay may at first glance be disheartening for onlookers, let us remember a lesson from previous months. In September of last year, when Josh Farmer appealed the ORDER of Disqualification from Judge Pope against Farmer and his team, many lamented at the legal delay. However, as the case lay practically dormant waiting for the North Carolina Court of Appeals to rule; one of the five defendants, Sarah Covington Anderson separated from the confines of WOFF. This development may not have occurred if Sarah had been in the middle of a trial to defend herself against the indictments which include second degree kidnapping and assault by strangulation. Adam Bartley is the second defendant who is no longer a member of WOFF.

The Appeal filed by Farmer and the resulting delay had an unintended consequence of allowing Sarah Anderson time and space to consider and make an exit. (Thank you, Josh!) The decision to leave WOFF has come at great cost as Sarah’s husband, Nick Anderson, stayed in the group. Mr. Anderson has taken the WOFF-normal approach of turning on his wife of several years and fighting for custody of their son. This custody case has already drawn the attention of Judge Laura Powell in her temporary visitation order warning both parents- No yelling, shaking or striking of the minor child! Additional revelations concerning marital life inside WOFF are contained in the court documents. We will reveal and explain them in a future post.

June Trial Scheduled for Word of Life Christian Church Members (NY)

Friday, two of the defendants in the Leonard murder case appeared in court. The step-sister, Sarah Ferguson and father of the deceased, Bruce Leonard, were denied an adjournment motion presented by their attorneys.

From the Utica Observer Dispatch:

“Sarah Ferguson and Bruce Leonard are two of nine people accused of varying degrees of involvement in a 14-hour October counseling session at the Chadwicks church that involved beating 19-year-old Lucas Leonard, who died of his injuries, and 17-year-old Christopher Leonard, who was injured seriously. Of those defendants, one has accepted a plea offer.”

Judge Michael Dwyer announced in open court that jury selection is set for June 22nd and opening statements to begin June 24th. The Judge also issued a strict gag order on this case. Attorneys for the nine defendants will not be able to discuss the case until they are in open court.

We have been following this case because of the similarities in the levels of control exhibited by the pastor of Word of Life Christian Church (WOLCC), Tiffani Irwin and Word of Faith Fellowship leader, Jane Whaley. Each group shows signs of harmful control over its members requiring an inordinate level of loyalty and strict obedience.

In the indictments against the nine church members, the District Attorney is seeking “gang assault” charges as well as kidnapping and murder charges. The mother of the two teenagers, Deborah Leonard, has already accepted a plea deal in exchange for her testimony about the incidents that fateful night in October of 2015. It has been learned that both teenagers were seeking to exit the controlling group and the “counseling session” was to address their “sin.” (another source on the case- here.)

Sound familiar? WOFF members wake up. The harmful dynamics inside your group are not normal and healthy. Do what you can to protect yourself- now. Face the fears of the shunning and seek safety for your body and soul.

2016 the Year for Changes!

Follow this blog on Twitter- @religiouscults and
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/johnhuddleauthor

Thank you, for taking time to visit and read this blog. Please, consume the information on this site responsibly. The author is not a licensed mental health professional and encourages those that need professional help to seek it. The intent of the material is to inform and be a resource. Be sure to tell every member that you know at WOFF about this blog. There are readers at WOFF. Jane told me and Josh confirmed it.

Comments are invited from all readers, including present or former members. Polls are not scientific and no private information is gathered.

Look on the right side of any post for the option to subscribe by email for notifications or RSS feeds notifying of new postings. It is a great feature. Also, find more posts by selecting “Categories”.

Guest posts reflect the opinions of the writers. Their opinions do not necessarily reflect the opinions of John Huddle or any other persons affiliated with this blog.

Please, take time to read the Terms of Use for this personal blog. As mentioned, for posts written by John Huddle, any information about WOFF is from his memories and recollections as perfect as that may be or not be.

Scripture references are Amplified Version unless otherwise noted. (Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation ) This is post number 568.