Leaving a Cult – Religious Cults Info ~ Resources, Answers and Hope

Update: Covington seeking plea deal- McKinny seeks continuance

Admin — Mon, 22 Oct 2018 02:02:16 +0000

Updated 10/22/2018 12:25AM-
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Charles McKeller, attorney for Diane McKinny filed a motion October 19th for continuance stating he had 125,000 pages of discovery to review and 30 hours of video. In his Motion, he “has been informed by the US Attorney that more discovery is forthcoming.” The motion leaves the scheduling of the court date up to the Court. A ruling is expected some time before November 7th.
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Documents filed in court October 19th reveal the M. Kent Covington has under counsel been in negotiations with Federal prosecutors to obtain a plea deal. The deadline for the plea deal normally would have been October 19th. The Judge agreed to extend the deadline for the working out the details until October 26th.

Assistant United States District Attorney Daniel Bradley did not oppose the motion.

From the document:

2. Defendant and the Government have agreed in principle, and are currently finalizing plea documents.

3. Defendant anticipates that plea documents will be signed and filed within the week, time being 26 October 2018.

The news is exciting. There are expectations for additional indictments in the next few months. Exact details of the plea deal(s) coming are not known. Along with others, I wait for news and details coming hopefully this week.

This may be the shortest post on this blog. This may also be the most encouraging for ex-members and those who have family still trapped inside the vortex of Word of Faith Fellowship (WOFF).

What does this last quarter of 2018 hold?

Follow on these platforms:

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.

Charges Dismissed-Safe Exits from WOFF remain a concern

Admin — Thu, 27 Sep 2018 18:44:18 +0000

Wednesday, I received confirmation that the second-degree trespassing charges initiated by Jayne Caulder against Wayne Guffey, David Wheeler and I, were set to be dismissed. These charges were filed after events on July31st at Word of Faith Fellowship (WOFF). The video has been viewed over 20,000 times and though I am not providing a link, it can be seen at Rccatalyst.com in an article about the events and dismissal. Also, Daily Courier article.

Rather than trudge through the mire of who said, she said, they did, we did not- I will say the North Carolina Attorney General Special Counsel Adren L. Harris was able to bypass hype and emotion and use sound legal reasoning on which to base the dismissal.

“Although is it evident from the video the Mrs. Caulder repeatedly asks the defendants to leave the Word of Faith Fellowship premises, and they remained while seeking clarification, it would be unreasonable to interpret the word “remain” to include such a brief or temporary interlude that lasted only a few minutes.”

Harris goes on to quote case law where individuals asked to leave and then stayed until police arrived to arrest protestors for second degree trespassing.

“… the defendants in the instant case did not permanently remain on the premises after being asked to leave. Instead they temporarily remained for a short period of time seeking clarification as to why they had been uninvited. Next, the defendants left the premises prior to law enforcement’s arrival and were not subject to removal by law enforcement. Therefore, for the above stated reasons, the conduct during the incident does not satisfy the elements of second-degree trespass and the Attorney General’s office declines to prosecute this matter.”

After all of this, my concerns remain for the treatment of those members who choose to leave WOFF. Yes, I am concerned about how members are treated overall. However, my chief concern on the day in question was to discuss with Jane Whaley alternatives to the usual member exit process. The emotionally charged covert plan of sneaking out in fear of retribution or strong discipline and taking off without personal belongings happens often. Many times, members taking safety risks which could be avoided if there was a healthy and safe exit procedure in place. I have shared this concern on other platforms and will continue to tell anyone who will listen.

Young members with no transportation, no cell phone, no outside employment or contacts, face nearly insurmountable odds to obtain the freedom they deserve. Their choice for a life outside of the confines of WOFF is often scoffed and rebuffed, making them the object of strong physical discipline or forced seclusion. They become separated from family and friends and any means to accomplish their goal. If this sounds too crazy to be true- wake up. I can put you in touch with many who have fought through the barriers to exercise their freedoms to leave WOFF.

Secondly, there are adults who have fallen extraordinarily dependent on WOFF provided services, provisions and living arrangements which cannot easily be replaced. They feel stuck. There is an ongoing internal struggle to appear happy and at ease when inside the appetite for freedom roars and will not be silent. My concerns also include this population inside WOFF. Those who are too dependent to obtain their independence in a calm and reasonable manner.

In order to address these issues and others not known, I propose these initial measures. The logistics of these initial steps will require adjustments and assessments for improvement.

1. Recognize the autonomous right of anyone to leave WOFF without suffering through the onslaught of jeers, screams, beratements and the like. Most certainly those of legal age, allow them the rights others in the country freely enjoy- freedom of movement.

2. Show Christian love and support for those choosing to leave and allow them to be heard and respected.

3. Appoint a central WOFF member to be the exit escort for this member. This person needs to be of a calm and stable manner. (I suggest- Ray Dixon or Larry King, Sr.)

4. This escort will help the member gather personal belongings, close out business relationships within the group and make contact to an agency or individual willing to help transport them away from WOFF properties.

5. The escort will assure the member exiting a timely, safe and complete detachment from the WOFF subculture.

6. If an outside agency such as the Red Cross is used to help the leaving member- the escort will be the liaison to that agency for the time of transition away from WOFF.

I suggested these two individuals because they have a good reputation in the surrounding community and possess some measure of personal decorum- at least from my observations.

There is my first proposal to improve the conditions for members desiring to leave WOFF. For those in WOFF leadership, what are your thoughts? You know the dramas of the past and how unsafe the exit process has been. Why not help facilitate safe exits and avoid the risk of additional negative publicity when a member attempting to leave is injured physically or emotionally or both? Others in your group may face additional indictments. Doesn’t it make sense to recognize the inevitable desire of some members to leave, establish procedures and begin to repair the negative public persona of your group?

I understand if you don’t want my help or input. However, it will do you well to recognize he problem and consider the constructive alternatives to the dangerous and risky escape options which many have been forced to take to gain their freedom. Consider it damage control.

Friends and readers, there are my initial ideas. Tell me your thoughts. It may seem crazy to even suggest such alternatives. That is fine with me. Progress often starts with an absurd idea which then goes through changes to become the new possible. Certainly, all involved in the WOFF drama on any level should be looking for new and positive possibilities. WOFF can’t change their past. They can change their future.

Follow on these platforms:

Twitter – @religiouscults

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

YouTube- religiouscultsinfo.com

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

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.

Scripture references are Amplified Version unless otherwise noted.

Ten years ago… today

Admin — Wed, 11 Jul 2018 02:55:08 +0000

Confused, heartbroken and sad… I pulled out of the driveway on Carver Lane and drove across the street to speak to my son. He was watering flowers for the neighbors who were also long-time members of Word of Faith Fellowship (WOFF). After a short exchange ever-burned in my memory, I got back in the van and made announcement calls to my daughter and my wife. Still, it did not occur to me that after 20 years of marriage including fathering two beautiful children; that the drive I took up Highway 221 to Marion would lead to the dissolving of family I loved so dearly. Thinking the separation would be temporary, I asked my new landlord for a six month or shorter lease.

My unwillingness to accept the plight other spouses had endured after leaving the confines of WOFF did not change the outcome. The months melted into years and the gulf separating me from my children remained. My wife filed for divorce and then sued me for back child support. The divorce became official while her monetary quest was not successful as she planned.

The communication with my children dried up ending in returned letters and shredded checks. The failed attempts to connect never quenched my love for them. There remains in my heart a father’s love which will never fade through time and eternity.

Ten years. Yes, I have missed many of life’s trials and adventures with them. When I talk to more recent ex-members, I soak up every observation they speak about my children. To the point of giddiness and glee, I rejoice to learn of my children’s lives.

On this ten year anniversary of my parting from WOFF-life, I will not allow remorse for the missed moments overwhelm and sadden me. The far-reaching events which have unfolded over the last 18 months give reason for hope. Yes, there is a bitter-sweet taste to the recent legal quandary which several WOFF leadership face. In years to come, will we look back at the guilty plea to conspiracy to commit wire fraud of Jerry Gross and Jason Gross as a tipping point for the inertia needed to reverse the course of WOFF? I think it is very likely.

After writing thousands words, speaking out in several public meetings, publishing a book and appearing on several media sources- it should be very clear where I stand. WOFF is UNSAFE for its members. From the recent investigations, we learn the practices of this group undermine the very fabric of our society and many levels government.

Did I foresee these events ten years ago? No. All I knew at that time was the slow train wreck and emotional earthquake rocking my family. That hot July day in 2008 marked the start of a journey which has not ended. A journey which has pushed me to do things I never dreamed of and showed me that speaking out against wrongs – seeking to make them right – is not always easy or comfortable. I believe the struggles are always worth it.

Whether you agree with what I say or not, I hope it is clear; I will keep going until the goal is accomplished. Freedom from soul rape, physical and emotional abuse and total control under the guise of religion marks the goal. When will the goal be reached is not clear yet, though we have come a long way. Many have joined the fight for freedom. I have met many fine people along this journey. The messages of encouragement and support come in often. I cherish each one of them.

Thank you, to every blog reader, each one who attended an event, book club meeting, and public forum or read me book. Also, I want to thank each person who has added their story to the running narrative which chronicles the destruction and personal damage resulting from WOFF practices. We all must do our part to make it clear- the abuses must stop.

Follow on these platforms:
Twitter – @religiouscults
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/johnhuddleauthor
YouTube- religiouscultsinfo.com

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

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.

Scripture references are Amplified Version unless otherwise noted.

Chad Cooper Files Complaint against WOFF and named leadership for Alienation of Affection

Admin — Sat, 07 Jul 2018 17:57:27 +0000

A “Complaint and Petition for Relief for Alienation of Affection” was filed May 15, 2018 in Rutherford County District Court, by Chad W. Cooper. This Complaint outlines various claims against the defendants: Jayne Caulder, David Caulder, Jane Whaley and Sam Whaley, Brooke and Kent Covington, Amy Mattos and the Word of Faith Fellowship (Inc.) (WOFF). The claims include accusations against the defendants that they “willfully, actively, wrongfully and intentionally interfered with the marital relationship” of Chad Cooper and Lauren (Caulder) Cooper.

The file number is -18 CVD 579. All of the defendants having been served, the deadline for answering this Complaint has been moved to July 24th. There has also been a motion filed by Josh Farmer representing WOFF seeking to move the case to Superior Court in light of the requested sum total of “monetary relief in excess of $4,000,000.”

What is “alienation of affection?”

It is obvious I am no legal expert and only repeat the results of research on the Internet. I am not offering any “legal opinions,” only general observations. Also, I will not retype the entire Complaint, but only draw out a few vital points.

“In North Carolina, you may sue an individual who has caused a married person to suffer the loss of affection of their spouse, so long as the marriage was peaceful and intact at the time of the affair.” (source )

My quick research reveals there are only a handful of states in the country that still allow this type of legal action. In North Carolina, there are “roughly 200 alienation of affection lawsuits filed each year.” (source)

Yes, this legal action is generally used in situations where one marriage partner has had an affair and the other marriage partner believes there was malicious intent on the part of the third party. Chad is not claiming Lauren had an affair with another man.

In #6 of the Complaint, he is claiming, “The Defendants, during the marriage of Plaintiff to Lauren Cooper, knew of inappropriate and lewd relations between Lauren Cooper and Defendant, Amy Mattos, (considering that both were married at the time). The Defendants collectively colluded to actively attempt to hide such occurrences from the Plaintiff and instructed Lauren Cooper to continue her relationship with Defendant, Amy Mattos. Plaintiff had to actively defy church leadership and instruction to finally find out about the conspiracy.”

Indeed, the information in #6 does not appear to be the main basis for this Complaint. Let’s continue.

“The Defendants …actively conspired and maliciously plotted to drive perceived doubt, mistrust, and lies about plaintiff to cause separation which ended in divorce.” (Complaint #7)

From the Complaint #8. “…Beginning sometime around the first of the year in 2016, the defendants suspected that Plaintiff and Lauren Cooper were showing more love for each other than for the church and thus took severe, unprovoked, malicious and criminal activity against the Plaintiff. After stealing passwords and criminally accessing private emails between Plaintiff and Lauren, they kept Lauren Cooper against her will at the home of Brooke and Kent Covington, where all the defendants conspired to cause the divorce of Plaintiff from his wife. … The threats culminated with the hysterical and unfounded profession that Plaintiff was indeed a demon…. Lauren secretly reached out to Plaintiff to inform him of these lies, threats, and malice, but the damage was ultimately done to her mentally. Plaintiff had to inform the pastor that her actions were both evil and illegal before he could be allowed to see his own wife, but his intervention was not soon enough. Even till present day, Lauren is still affected and wounded by these unspeakable and atrocious acts committed by the Defendants.”

This appears to be the determining sequence of events which Chad cited for the Complaint. He goes on to say the results of these actions by the Defendants caused “… severe mental distress to said minor child.” Yes, Chad and Lauren have a young child.

He claims the actions of the Defendants have “reduced the financial income to plaintiff by causing Plaintiff to have to care for two households.”

Chad summarizes his losses in these words, “(Plaintiff) suffered serious and grievous injuries including the loss of love and affection of Lauren Cooper, loss of consortium of Lauren Cooper, mental agony and anguish, humiliation, damage to his honor, destruction of his family, and wounded sensibilities. …”

In #15 under the heading “RELIEF REQUESTED”-

“WHEREFORE, the Plaintiff brings this action and demands judgment of from and against the Defendants in the sum of $1,877,800 in actual damages and $2,400,000 in punitive damages, together with reasonable attorney fees. And the Defendants shall be assessed all costs of this action.”

There are other parts to the Complaint which we may review at another time or which may be brought out, if indeed the case goes to trial.

From previous cases where WOFF is involved, I believe we can expect delays, delays and more delays; attempted depositions of individuals not related to this case and possibly a motion filed by Josh Farmer for immediate dismissal of WOFF, Inc from these proceedings. This has been Josh Farmer’s pattern to file strategic motions in the very beginning of cases with hopes for a favorable ruling for his client. In that regard, he is a “good attorney” defending his clients.

No doubt, this case is not the norm and it will be very interesting to see what develops. If there is any level of success by Chad in this action, it could open the door for additional similar complaints to follow from other ex-members. I offer this prediction after reading the Complaint and understanding the inner working dynamics of the WOFF subculture.

Have any other former members been treated in the same or similar ways as Chad outlines in this Complaint? For those ex-members who were inside during this time frame, did the events occur as outlined? Is it possible that the extreme loyalty of the leadership named in this Complaint blinded them to the true nature of their deeds? Would leadership view these alleged actions as showing Lauren and their child “the Love of God?” They were only “doing whatever it took to keep Lauren in the will of God.”

Would Chad open himself up to additional pressures and public review of his plight unless he fully believed there were serious and “malicious” acts committed? I have not discussed these questions with him. This case may cause changes in the dynamics of WOFF and its practices in the future.

Follow on these platforms:
Twitter – @religiouscults
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/johnhuddleauthor
YouTube- religiouscultsinfo.com

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

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.

Scripture references are Amplified Version unless otherwise noted.

Conundrums and Complications… (audio)

Admin — Tue, 19 Jun 2018 22:12:17 +0000

Diane McKinny pleads “not guilty” – given a $500,000 unsecured bond

Before the initial hearing started on Monday in front of Magistrate Judge Dennis Howell, the court atmosphere was relaxed and filled with conversations between McKinny’s defense attorney, Mack McKeller, and other court participants. Mr. McKeller was obviously known by all of the regular court staff. He gave the court reporter a hug in the friendliest way and received a warm welcome from the Magistrate once everyone was in their place to start the hearing.

The hearing started at 10:13AM. Magistrate Howell led by outlining the order of the proceedings: there would be an initial hearing, a detention hearing and an arraignment. He started by asking Diane several introductory questions meant to establish her ability to hear, read and understand the procedures as each step occurred. He read a list of her rights including not saying anything and a right to jury trial as well as others.

Soon, he was into the reading of the multi-page Indictment which served as a foundation for the other steps taken during this session.

As with Jerry Gross and Jason Gross, Magistrate Howell took extreme care and consideration to ask questions meant to secure Diane’s agreement that she understood the process unfolding. He read each word of the indictment which took a while. He was very engaged. I provided a copy of the Indictment in my last post and will not go over all of it here. Not mentioned in my last post was the forfeiture judgment sought for $309,660. This amount represents the sum of benefits believed by the investigators which was acquired by fraudulent means.

As procedure, the Magistrate advised Diane she had three choices for representation. She could represent herself. She could hire an attorney or she could apply for indigent status and after a review of a sworn and signed financial affidavit, she could be granted a court appointed attorney. She chose to complete the financial forms and ask for a court appointed attorney- in this case it was Mr. McKeller.

The list of the requirements of the pre-trial release conditions were read by Magistrate Howell. Right away, complications began to surface. Diane McKinny is (still) employed as the “bookkeeper” for Kent Covington. During the time in question, she worked in those duties for three companies owned or managed by Marion “Kent” Covington- Diverse Corporate Technologies (DCT), Integrity Marble, Inc. d/b/a Integrity Marble and Granite and during the time in questions, Sky Catcher Communications, Inc. These were the companies listed in the indictment.

Her continued employment for Kent posed a problem in that a few of the affected DCT employees from the time period in question remain employed today. Discussions began to resolve this issue since McKinny is not allowed to talk to anyone who could be called as a witness in this case or possibly in other related cases. The Magistrate again, as in the Gross hearings, expressed the requirement for McKinny to strictly adhere to this condition. He warned her that if it is discovered that she talked with Kent, present employees or anyone else who is a witness in this case, except for her attorney and the investigators, her bond would be revoked, a warrant for contempt of court issued for her arrest and she could be sent to jail and possibly fined.

A major conundrum was discussed in that McKinny is still a part of the “church community” (Word of Faith Fellowship) of which many members are subject to several ongoing investigations. The Magistrate stopped short of telling Diane she could not go to work or go to church, but he emphasized again that she is forbidden to discuss this case except with her attorney or investigators.

The list of limitations on Diane in many regards mirrored those put upon the Grosses. These include but are not limited to restricted travel to the District of Western North Carolina and the District of South Carolina, giving up her passport and not apply for a new one, no firearms, no violations of the law including reporting if she gets speeding ticket, no consumption of alcohol, no doing drugs or hanging out with those that do, agreeing to random drug testing, agreeing to submit a DNA sample if requested.

Additionally, her home, car, cell phone, any computer she has access to – all are subject to random searches. Also, she was to meet with a probation officer to discuss other limitations and requirements.

The major conundrum which surfaced with the Grosses and with Diane was how to limit the contact with those who may be witnesses in this case. Next Monday, this same complication will be discussed. A possible solution would be for their counsel to advise them that until the trial is over and the outcome known- listen to the services/sermons from home. Not as discipline, but as a precaution to keep them free from compromising conversations.

Kent’s indictment includes the allegation he used his authority within the church community to coerce compliance to the illegal scheme. Will it be prudent to advise Kent to take his church involvement over the phone?

During the arraignment hearing, McKinny plead not guilty and was issued a $500,000 unsecured bond. The court date was set for September 4th, 9:00AM courtroom 1. An “open file policy” on behalf of the U.S. Attorney was confirmed. This may speed up the defense’s access to the evidence or discovery held by the prosecution.

By 10:54Am, the hearing was complete. Diane had a couple of other meetings. Her attorney presented me and the other media with his card and said, No time to talk now, send me an email and I will answer questions as I can… “We will present a vigorous defense.”

Monday was a beautiful, hot and humid day in the mountains of Western North Carolina. In many ways, this day in U.S. District court served as a warm-up for next Monday. Kent Covington is cast as instigator and developer of this illegal scheme along with McKinny. For those familiar with both parties, who do you think took the lead in birthing the “scheme?”

One has to wonder if either of them will turn on the other as the main promoter or driving force behind these alleged crimes. Once each of their attorneys views the discovery and evidence against their client, will they strategize to reflect the guilt on the other defendant? Or will a new person be named as the master of the plan of fraud?

Adding to the complicated dynamics of the “church community” is Kent’s marriage to Brooke – who is known as top tier leadership within WOFF. Will these factors complicate things even more?

With the trial for McKinny set for September in front of Judge Martin Reidinger, one wonders who might be indicted in July. Appears there will be more fireworks in the days to come.

I believe the conundrums and complications will continue to multiply as more individuals are indicted. Members and business owners will decide if their loyalty to WOFF is worth the risk of jail time. Has it come to this? Yes, it has. The cost of being a faithful WOFF member is higher than many expected. Agree?

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

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 638.

Related posts:

WOFF Minister-Kent Covington pleads not guilty to Federal charges On the courthouse steps, Covington’s attorney answers questions… (key points...

Kent Covington to plead guilty- Jane Whaley named in court document Monday, I heard a report on the radio that Governor...

This is not a parking ticket… (audio) Kent Covington and Diane McKinny indicted on wire fraud conspiracy...

This is not a parking ticket… (audio)

Admin — Sun, 17 Jun 2018 22:46:43 +0000

Kent Covington and Diane McKinny indicted on wire fraud conspiracy charges

On Thursday last week, I missed a call from a reporter. Not taking time to listen to the voice mail, a few minutes later, I called them back.

“Have you heard? There were more members indicted today. Kent Covington and Diane McKinny…
“I know them…”
It’s Marion Kent Covington – right? Yes, I replied. Wire fraud involving unemployment benefits…

My mind started racing and my phone started going off with message alerts. My email started filling up. A little later came a call from another reporter asking if I heard. Someone else called asking if for sure Diane McKinny was a WOFF member.

Thus began the next public unveiling of more details of the UI scheme first reported in September of 2017 by the Associated Press. In May of this year, the news was confirmed by the guilty plea of Dr. Jerry Gross and his son, Jason Gross. They plead guilty on May 25th to one count of wire fraud and are waiting for their sentencing. Each was assigned a $200,000 unsecured bond.

Jerry and Jason were charged through a Bill of Information and waived the indictment process- affirming the information presented by the Federal Attorney and pleading guilty without a trial.

Kent Covington and Diane McKinny face a different process. They are facing the indictment and will go through some additional steps. Yes, the recent press release reminds us all that Covington and McKinny are presumed innocent until or unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Unless things change as the process goes forward, these two defendants appear to be headed for a highly visible and widely publicized trial. We thought the State vs. Brooke Covington trial was media frenzy, this will be bigger as these charges carry severe and far reaching penalties.

After reading the Bill of Indictment, it mystifies me to consider a plausible defense for Covington and McKinny. Would the US Attorney move forward without highly credible and irrefutable evidence? Would he even waist his time if there were doubts and holes in his case?

From the Bill of Indictment:

3. Beginning around the time of its initial implementation, and continuing until in or around March 2013, COVINGTON and MCKINNY, aided and abetted by others known and unknown to the Grand Jury, promoted the scheme to other business owners and managers in their community. At least five businesses implemented the scheme as designed by Covington and McKinny, resulting in substantial monetary losses to the State of North Carolina and the United States of America.

This reading leaves the door open for other business owners to be indicted. I read this as five OTHER business owners besides Covington. We know of one other, Dr. Jerry Gross.

14. b. Next, Covington called a business meeting at DCT and informed the remaining DCT employees that the company could no longer afford to pay their wages, and that they therefore would be placed on UI Benefits, but that Covington expected the employees to continue to work at DCT full-time in order to help the business survive. Covington used his position of authority within his church community, which included most, if not all, of the employees at DCT, to coerce the employees to comply.

No shock here. Kent walked in “God’s authority” when it came to business matters. And all former members said- Amen.

18. By September of 2009, several other businesses run by members of the same church community to which Covington and McKinny belonged, and employing many members of that church community, were facing financial struggles related to the economic downturn. Covington and McKinny promoted the fraud that Covington and McKinny had devised at DCT to other members of the church community….

c. After the scheme was successful at DCT, Covington implemented a variation of the scheme a second time, with McKinny’s help, at Integrity Marble, Inc., d/b/a Integrity Marble and Granite, another for-profit company that Covington owned and managed, in or about March of 2010.

d. Covington then implemented a variation of the scheme a third time at Sky Catcher Communications, Inc., a company he managed, in or about May of 2011.

Let me explain an underlying dynamic in this all-inclusive “church community.” Employees of the companies mentioned had very little, if any, say in how they were paid or when they worked. If they did not agree with that “scheme” posed as God’s will; they risked unemployment, church discipline and or worse to go against the “plan of God.” I have heard of some who disagreed and sought employment in another church-member owned company. They did it with fear and trembling- knowing the risk.

Isn’t that a sad and pathetic thing to have to navigate in order to keep attending a “church?” There are hidden and unforeseen costs when your membership becomes “all-inclusive.” Many present and former members have discovered this truth.

The first appearance hearing for Covington has been moved to June 25th. McKinny’s hearing is tomorrow, June 18th, in courtroom two on the third floor of the U. S. District Courthouse. This is the same room where Jerry and Jason appeared a few weeks ago. The hearing will start at 9:45AM, unless something changes before then.
As filed – Covington indictment
There is yet more drama to unfold as the hot summer of 2018 rolls along…

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

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 637.

Related posts:

Conundrums and Complications… (audio) Diane McKinny pleads “not guilty” – given a $500,000 unsecured...

Kent Covington to plead guilty- Jane Whaley named in court document Monday, I heard a report on the radio that Governor...

WOFF Minister-Kent Covington pleads not guilty to Federal charges On the courthouse steps, Covington’s attorney answers questions… (key points...

Anderson vs. Anderson – First Day in Court (audio)

Admin — Wed, 02 May 2018 02:41:21 +0000

After long delays for one reason or another, the Anderson vs. Anderson custody case began this morning in front of the Honorable Judge Thomas McAvoy “Mack” Brittain, Jr. in courtroom 3 of the Rutherford County courthouse. There was a full day of testimonies from several folks. For this post, I will summarize a few key points and expound on them in the mp3 file included. I am not promising this format from here on out, but I am hoping it will be quicker and a better use of my time. Not sure you would call this an official podcast, but I will do my best to edit the audio to make it pleasant to listen to while including much more information than if I wrote out today’s adventures.

Here is a short recap of a few of the vital issues on the table. Plaintiff Nicholas Anderson filed action against Sarah Anderson after she left the Word of Faith Fellowship (WOFF) February 26, 2016. The son, Aden Brock Anderson first left with Sarah and on a subsequent weekend of agreed visitation for Nick, he did not return the child as promised. March 7, 2016, he filed for divorce and child custody. He first listed he desire for primary care and custody, but also listed a shared custody option.

March 16, 2016; Judge Laura Powell signed a Memorandum of Judgment outlining joint custody and the parameters. Included in this order was the following:

“e. Neither party shall subject the child or allow anyone else to subject the child to abuse, including yelling, shaking, striking or any form of physical abuse.”

I was in the court room that day and felt this was a victory for Sarah. Not a guarantee it would never happen, just open acknowledgment that the Judge was aware it could happen and may have previously. Unfortunately, Judge Powell recused herself February 28, 2017 the day after the first article from the Associated Press outlining allegations of abuse from ex-members.

April 4, 2016- Sarah filed an Answer to Nick’s Compliant. She stated in her motion after telling Nick her intention to not return to WOFF and not allowing their son to return; she was denied access to the marital home “if she would not submit herself to church scrutiny and discipline.”

Also, in this document, under the “Child Custody” section:

“34. That the Defendant has maintained the primary care of the minor child through the date of the separation when the Defendant voiced concerned about the safety of the infant child being subjected to secretive church practices of physical mistreatment in which the Plaintiff was unwilling to intervene and provide protection for the minor child.”

These two points and more were the basis for much of the testimony today. Nick’s attorney, Alan LeCroy from Morganton has a previous commitment on Wednesday. Court is set to resume Thursday morning at 9:00AM.

Hope you enjoy the audio file.
https://religiouscultsinfo.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Anderson-vs-Anderson-5-1-18.mp3
Please, let me know your feedback.

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 633.

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Hate Speech or Free Speech?

Admin — Thu, 12 Apr 2018 21:10:41 +0000

In the Wednesday version of Word of Faith Fellowship speaks out, Karel Reynolds, Christian Whitbeck and Justin Davies continued with their assessment and free advertising for the Community Forum held this past Saturday in Spindale. Karel again called the efforts of survivors to tell their experiences a “conspiracy against our church.” She claimed the purpose of the meeting was to “attack our church.” She reviewed her definition of a conspiracy and not too far into the program she gave a plug for this blog. Karel reminded folks that I was in the meeting and claimed I use this blog to spread “bitterness and hatred.”

After listening to this program I began to consider what constitutes hate speech and free speech. Let me briefly explain my thoughts.

On a broad scale, I believe WOFF would like to find someone in government to agree with them that my writings, my book and my public meetings are indeed hate speech. Then, they could petition to shut me down or shut me up. They would have me censored and held to the same strict censorship dynamic which exists inside their group. No one inside WOFF speaks freely every time on every issue- unless there is 100% agreement to subject their words to the review and approval of the leader.

After surveying the culture and climate in this country, I don’t see this happening any time soon.

Why? In my opinion, free speech includes speech which some others may consider as hateful because it contradicts their beliefs and/or sheds light on their practices. My opinions and beliefs about my time in WOFF and what may go on inside there are just that- my opinions. Agreed, I state them strongly at times, but that coincides with my passion for others to hear my message and for changes to come. Also, I find very credible the accounts of other survivors and seek to help them where I am able.

There is one main aspect that must be remembered. The simple fact that no one is compelled or required to read this blog, read my book or attend any of my meetings. If everyone ignored me, then I would be left talking only to myself and never sell one book. If everyone ignored me, then I would have to decide to change my message or be satisfied with no readers.

The truth is there are concerned folks who read this blog and attend my gatherings. Some agree with me and some do not. I hear from both sides and am very glad people show their support.

The Daily Courier recently described me in these words, “John Huddle – whose name has become synonymous with criticism of WOFF since the release of his book “Locked in”…

There it is in black and white. To many, I am a critic. To some, I am an activist. To Karel- I spread hate. To many ex-members, I share hope. Hope that one day there will be changes and the oppressive practices which define WOFF membership will no longer inflict the emotional, physical and spiritual damage that hundreds have suffered through the years.

It is up to Jane and her leaders, not me, to determine if the group is able to survive minus all the hurtful practices. Can this happen? Will this happen? Time will tell.

For now, I continue writing, speaking and actively helping those who want my help in their quest for a life free from the effects of WOFF.

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 632.

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Cause or Conspiracy?

Admin — Wed, 11 Apr 2018 06:25:12 +0000

The Word of Faith Fellowship (WOFF) radio program Monday morning included Karel Reynolds, Justin Davies and Christian Whitbeck. The purpose of the show was to retell the content from the Community Forum held this past Saturday afternoon at the Spindale House. There were some common themes which emerged at the characterization of the content from Saturday. Justin and Christian were “appalled.” They were shocked at the “hate speech” used by ex-member survivors of WOFF. They said the language used would incite hate towards them and they felt unsafe going out in the community with their children. Karel wrapped it all up in a few statements calling the ex-members as ones leading a “conspiracy to shut the doors of our church.”

Listening to them go on about their shock and bewilderment was at first hard to grasp. Then I remembered that in their world, all things fit and the rationalization to “call things that are not as though they were…” allows them to survive. I have written about it here before. There are facts and there is truth inside of WOFF. Facts are superseded by the Truth that Jane hears from God about a situation. If you see a fact- one person pushed another during deliverance, and then you question Jane about it, she could very well spin the deed as “love.” “Doing whatever it takes to keep that person in the will of God.” (i.e. – a member of WOFF)

Karel defined conspiracy as “telling lies, distorting the truth and then demonizing people to make them look like something they are not, attacking people, attacking individuals of an organization to demonize them and thirdly-they create an “us and them” within the community. And that has been the attempt of this group- to create an “us and them” against the WOFF.”

Before I go on, look at this definition she uses. What does it sound like? “…telling lies, distorting truth and then demonizing people…” Present and ex-members of WOFF, who assigns more demon names to ordinary daily activities than anyone you know?

During my days at WOFF I heard more names of devils than I could even have imagined. Let’s list a few of them: religious devil, ping-pong devil, video devil, lust devil, French vanilla devil, lazy devil, foolish devil, soccer devil, baseball devil, competition devil, newspaper devil, radio devil (watchout- Jim!), TV devil, selfish devil, karate devil, boy scout devil, unclean devil, sex devil, perversion devil, furniture devil, toilet paper devil, Sprite devil, Babylonian devil, sleep devil, music devil, drum devil, guitar devil, driving devil, talking devil… do you get the point? If there is any one person in this world who is proficient at “demonization”- it is guess who? Opps! WOFF members don’t “guess.” That is witchcraft or you guessed it- the guessing devil.

Back to the definition: “… to make them look like something they are not.” What purpose does it serve to tell someone they are “giving to a (take your pick) devil”? To put them down? To put them in a lower position than yourself? To make yourself appear special or more spiritual? Or could it be to exercise a level of control over that person as you also claim to have the cure for that “devil”? Inside of WOFF- that was of blasting, deliverance prayer.

More: “…attacking people, attacking members of an organization to demonize them…”

How many people remember the organized attack by WOFF on the Faith Freedom Fund started years ago? I was on the inside when it started. Irony at its best. When inside WOFF, I did not see it as an “attack” on the Faith Freedom Fund. I saw it as a righteous cause to tell people not to give them money and certainly don’t believe their lies. In reality, WOFF was demonizing Billy Honeycutt and the other founders. Would you believe years later I joined the Faith Freedom Fund and heard their side of the story. They felt “demonized” for doing the will of God- helping people, ex-members of WOFF! And when I found out that WOFF members had stolen the Faith Freedom Fund signs showing members safe places. I was shocked. Not so much now, huh?

Last part of her definition of conspiracy: “they create and ‘us and them’ in the community.”

Need I explain? Karel was accusing a group of ex-members of attempting to create what WOFF has thrived on for years. Dividing families. For WOFF members- it is “us”- God’s righteous family and then there is “them;” those who have chosen not to believe the WOFF version of truth. This group includes all who have not ever been a part of WOFF and those who “became a Judas” are left them.

Micah listed as a characteristic of a cult- they create an “us vs them” mentality. Now, Karel tries to call ex-members a part of a conspiracy to “shut the doors of our church” using this practice which WOFF has perfected. Does she even see the sad irony of her definition? She is pointing at us accusing us of doing what Jane and her leadership have been doing for years. They have been waging a conspiracy to deceive Rutherford County and others into believing they are a bunch of harmless persecuted Jewish wanna-bes. (Their Holocaust Museum used as the proof of their concern and care for the Jewish community.) All the while calling outsiders something they are not and demonizing their own to keep them in submission to Jane and her edicts.

Just as understanding changed and I joined the group WOFF demonized for years- the Faith Freedom Fund. So, my understanding has changed as to the true nature of the deeds done in secret at WOFF. The WOFF destructive practices which were once the “will of God” in my eyes are not any more. I believe I left the group which operates the conspiracy and am now a part of a group that has a cause. The cause is to do what is in our power to tell our experiences and shed light into WOFF; in hopes the children there now will not have to grow-up living the conspiracy –while singing the song of the persecuted.

I will write more on the content of this broadcast in the days to come. Things I plan to cover are the comments by Benjamin Cooper which included his reference to things which he went through at WOFF were things done in Communist concentration camps. In years past, I have made the same analogy and will explain again how these comments were accurate.

Also, on the slate to cover will be Justin’s reference to his feeling persecuted like the Jews. We will breakdown why this is a conditioned response by him and he can be expected to copy his leader. He will espouse her feelings as his own. He believes he is perfectly just in his proclamation, to his own discredit and as an insult to many of the Jewish faith.

Ex-members- what say you to being accused of a conspiracy as Karel defined it? Who lives the conspiracy?

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 631.

Related posts:

Hate Speech or Free Speech? In the Wednesday version of Word of Faith Fellowship speaks...

Is Your Conscience For Sale? How Would You Know? Last Monday evening, October 12th, I was privileged to sit...

On this, I Agree with Jane Whaley… Recently, I was told that Jane Whaley, leader of Word...

Forum Reflections… (Video)

Admin — Sun, 08 Apr 2018 20:53:56 +0000

Thank you, to each and every person who helped with preparations and supported the Community Forum on Saturday. We appreciate those who attended and each one who asked a question or spoke. These events take a team effort and we certainly had that in the days leading to and during this event. There is also appreciation for those who came to listen and support. As mentioned during the session, we understand that those who attended from Word of Faith Fellowship (WOFF) may have found it difficult to attend. We appreciate them coming regardless.

This first video is of John Cooper telling how the Rutherford County Department of Social Services failed him as well as the children at WOFF. Thank you, to WLOS for posting this video and covering the event.

WOFF survivor, John, talks about how DSS has failed him pic.twitter.com/xoFcZAdcB6

— Adriana (@AdrianaMendez) April 7, 2018

Next, Micah Cooper explains text messages from WOFF.

The Citizens Against Corruption and Abuse Facebook® page has the live stream. As I write this, there have been over 5,700 views.

Please, let us know your questions after seeing the video. Like last year, we ran out of time before answering all of the submitted questions. What are your suggestions to best handle the remaining questions from Saturday?

How can we make this event better next time? Would a real time, virtual forum be of interest to anyone? The personal interaction with those in attendance is valuable, however if this was an option to help answer questions- would this option be useful? Questions could be submitted real time and answered over the live stream.

2017 sparked a lot of interest from the community. During 2018, there will be more news to catch the attention of many folks. In addition to helping those who leave WOFF, we want to help others understand the dynamics and challenges of the WOFF- experience.

April 13, 2018- there is scheduled a hearing for WOFF member, Kerrick Hudson to answer charges of the theft of Wayne Guffey’s political sign. We will report those developments as they unfold.

Please, share this post and comment on how we help get the word out.

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 630.

Related posts:

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