Federal Agents Investigate Alleged TikTok Cult Pastor
Federal agents recently executed a raid on a home in Tujunga, California, linked to Pastor Robert Shinn, who has been at the center of a controversial Netflix documentary titled “Dancing for the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult.” The raid is part of a broader investigation into serious allegations of sex trafficking and other criminal activities.
The operation involved multiple agencies, including the FBI, IRS, US Postal Service, and the Department of Labor. They reportedly served warrants related to sex trafficking, money laundering, mail fraud, tax evasion, and fraud related to COVID-19. This raises significant concerns about the integrity of organizations and individuals who claim to operate under the guise of religious or community outreach.
During the early morning raid, at least six individuals were detained. Eyewitness accounts indicated that law enforcement used flash-bang grenades to initiate the operation, indicating the urgency and seriousness of the investigation. Footage from local news coverage showed several people being led away in handcuffs, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
Pastor Robert Shinn, who founded Shekinah Church in 1994, established a talent management agency called 7M Films in 2021. This organization allegedly sought to recruit dancers by promising them fame on TikTok, an enticing offer for many young performers. However, it has come to light that some of these individuals were also drawn into the church, blurring the lines between entertainment and religious recruitment.
Former members of Shekinah Church have come forward with troubling claims. They allege that Shinn manipulated and abused them, with some accusing him of sexual assault. These stories raise unsettling questions about the ethical standards of influence within such organizations, particularly when they intertwine with faith and community.
One former dancer, Melanie Goldman, shared a chilling account in the documentary, describing an incident where she witnessed young women rushing into the church in distress. This kind of behavior raises alarms about the environment cultivated within these groups and the psychological impact on vulnerable individuals seeking guidance or acceptance.
There seems to be a pervasive belief among former members that 7M Films and Shekinah Church operate as one entity, with Shinn instructing his followers to sever ties with their families as part of their devotion. This is indicative of a cult-like mentality where personal relationships are sacrificed for the sake of the organization. Dancer Aubrey Fisher recounted how Shinn demanded a significant portion—up to 70%—of his income, which raises further ethical concerns about financial exploitation.
Another former member, Melanie Wilking, went viral in 2022 with a poignant Instagram message aimed at her sister Miranda, who lost her autonomy after joining the group. Their once-popular TikTok account fell silent as Melanie distanced herself from Shinn’s influence, highlighting the emotional toll of such manipulative affiliations.
Despite the mounting allegations, Shinn has consistently denied any wrongdoing, claiming that Shekinah Church and 7M Films are separate entities. His attempts to defend his reputation included a defamation lawsuit against former church members who labeled the organization as a cult. Such legal actions often serve as a smokescreen to silence dissent and obscure the truth.
As the investigation unfolds, it serves as a crucial reminder of the dangers that lurk behind seemingly benign establishments. The intertwining of faith and entertainment can create a breeding ground for manipulation and exploitation. It is essential for communities to remain vigilant and discerning in the face of charismatic leaders who promise more than they can deliver.
In an era where social media platforms are influential in shaping cultures and communities, the stories emerging from this case highlight the urgent need for accountability and transparency within organizations that combine faith with business. The quest for fame and acceptance should never come at the cost of one’s well-being or autonomy. As this investigation continues, many will be watching closely, hoping for justice for those who felt trapped in a web of exploitation.
