How this story developed

The News-Herald began investigating Joshua Media Ministries International in January after receiving a tip. Several former church members spoke with us, some on-the-record and others off-the-record, as well as provided documents. That information led to us obtaining more public records through the state's Freedom of Information Act.

While attending a protest outside the church in March, we attempted to speak with church members to get their side of the story. Some promised a statement would be forthcoming, while others circled our reporter and began loudly chanting messages to God in an apparent attempt to drown out interviews being conducted with those protesting against the church.

After a statement never came, we attempted multiple times to contact the church and its minister, the Rev. David E. Taylor, for comment. While visiting the church in person, we were told to leave the property. Messages sent through the church's website, Facebook page, toll-free hotline and on a number believed to be Taylor’s cellphone were not returned. Our hopes were – and continue to be – to speak with someone affiliated with the church.

— Editor Jason Alley