Legal Analysis By Attorneys
Breaking Legal News
A husband and wife who presented themselves as pastors are now at the center of a disturbing federal case involving allegations of sex trafficking and forced labor, according to Patch. Treva Edwards, 60, and Christine Edwards, 63, founders of a church they called "Jesus is Lord by the Holy Ghost," face multiple charges, including conspiracy to commit forced labor. Treva Edwards is also charged with sex trafficking through force, fraud, and coercion, alongside forced labor.
Federal prosecutors claim the couple operated their church out of a multi-unit apartment building in Orange, where they allegedly lured vulnerable individuals into their congregation. Between 2011 and 2020, the couple is accused of recruiting people facing personal struggles, coercing them into worshiping, living, and working for the church.
Treva Edwards allegedly claimed he was a prophet with direct communication with God. Prosecutors say he used this claim to instill fear, warning victims that disobedience would lead to divine punishment, as well as physical, emotional, and financial harm.
The indictment describes a harrowing system where victims were forced to provide unpaid manual labor for contracts arranged by the couple, who then kept the earnings. The victims were reportedly subjected to strict control, with rules dictating when they could eat, sleep, pray, or leave the church building. Communication with non-members was also tightly restricted.
Beyond forced labor, Treva Edwards is accused of verbally and emotionally abusing victims to ensure their compliance. Prosecutors allege that he sexually assaulted at least one victim repeatedly, impregnated her, and ordered her to have an abortion. These allegations have drawn sharp condemnation from law enforcement officials.
“Treva and Christine Edwards turned a source of hope into a tool of fear by allegedly exploiting religious faith to manipulate victims and expose them to sexual violence and forced labor conditions,” said Ricky J. Patel, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations Newark Division.
The couple was arrested on Wednesday and appeared in court the following day. U.S. Attorney Alina Habba issued a statement emphasizing the commitment to fighting human trafficking: “If you engage in human trafficking, we will find you, and we will prosecute you.”
This case has prompted renewed focus on the misuse of religious platforms to exploit vulnerable individuals, with authorities vowing to hold perpetrators accountable.
Religious leaders hold positions of trust and authority, but when that power is abused, it leaves survivors facing immense emotional and legal challenges. Attorney Stewart Ryan, a seasoned advocate for pastor sexual abuse victims in New Jersey, offers valuable perspectives on the legal steps available to those harmed by clergy or religious figures. In this interview, Ryan discusses the pathways survivors can take to hold perpetrators accountable and find a sense of justice.
Editor Darla Medina: In cases like this, where victims have reportedly been manipulated by religious leaders, what legal options are available to them?
Attorney Stewart Ryan: Victims of abuse by religious leaders can pursue both criminal and civil actions. On the criminal side, law enforcement and prosecutors handle the investigation and charges, as we see in this case. For civil cases, survivors can file lawsuits against the individuals directly responsible and, in some cases, the organizations that allowed the abuse to occur, if negligence or complicity is involved.
Medina: How do survivors navigate the emotional and legal complexities of coming forward?
Ryan: It’s a challenging process, but survivors should know they’re not alone. Legal professionals, trauma-informed advocates, and support groups can help guide them. Importantly, New Jersey has extended its statute of limitations for sexual abuse cases, giving survivors more time to seek justice. These legal options are designed to provide accountability and compensation for the harm they’ve endured.
Medina: What role does public awareness play in addressing these cases?
Ryan: Public awareness is vital. Cases like this highlight the importance of holding abusers accountable, but they also encourage other survivors to come forward, knowing that justice is possible. Raising awareness ensures that these abuses are no longer hidden behind positions of power or faith.
If someone in your family has been sexually abused by a pastor or religious leader, you don’t have to face this alone. Legal options are available to hold the abuser accountable and seek the justice your loved one deserves. Our team is here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation to discuss your case and explore the best path forward.
info@legalherald.com