New Jersey Couple Accused of Enslaving Church Members
A couple in New Jersey stands accused of forcing church members into what some describe as a form of slavery. Authorities say they threatened participants with punishment for non-compliance, effectively controlling their every move.
Treva Edwards, 60, and his wife Christine, 63, allegedly claimed to be pastors, luring vulnerable individuals into their congregation and subjecting them to harsh labor while robbing them of essential needs, such as food and sleep. Reports suggest that they operated out of an orange apartment building known as the Church of the Holy Spirit. Federal prosecutors have described the couple as exploiting the faith of their followers, framing their demands as divine requirements.
In a chilling allegation, Treva Edwards is accused of repeatedly assaulting one woman during her pregnancy and pressuring her into having an abortion. Prosecutors noted that he manipulated victims into believing that failing to work as instructed would result in divine punishment.
The couple reportedly isolated their victims, monitoring where they went and whom they communicated with, convincing them that non-members were malevolent influences. Allegedly, last week, they were charged with conspiracy to commit forced labor, with Treva facing additional charges related to sex trafficking and fraud.
Prosecutors believe that this oppressive arrangement lasted from 2011 to 2020, leveraging the personal struggles of individuals looking for spiritual refuge. Treva, they claim, presented himself as a prophet capable of directly communicating with God, leading followers to fear that deviating from his teachings would bring spiritual and physical harm.
Following their arrest, it’s unclear whether the couple has obtained legal representation. If found guilty, they could face serious sentences, including up to 20 years for conspiracy and a potential life sentence for Treva on the more severe charges.
U.S. Attorney Alina Haba expressed her office’s commitment to tackling human trafficking, emphasizing the importance of holding accountable those who prey on vulnerable communities.
