Federal agents have raided multiple California properties linked to Robert Shinn, the controversial pastor of Shekinah Church and a central figure in Netflix’s 2024 docuseries Dancing for the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult.
The FBI, alongside local tactical units, conducted a coordinated operation at five locations—including a home in Tujunga—early on July 25, according to FOX 11.
Shinn was detained during the raid but not arrested. Warrants were served in connection with serious allegations, including sex trafficking, tax evasion, money laundering, mail fraud, and pandemic-related fraud.
Shinn and his church have been accused by former members of coercive control, including forced labor, financial exploitation, and isolating followers from their families.
In the Netflix series, several participants—including minors—claimed they were manipulated into surrendering their earnings and working for little or no compensation.
Legal expert Mary David noted that the most serious charges could carry a prison sentence of 15 years to life.
“Coercion is especially sinister when it involves a religious leader,” she said. “Victims feel like they’re potentially risking their salvation—or the salvation of others—if they don’t comply.”
The federal investigation is ongoing. No formal arrests have been confirmed at this time.