news: Investigations are reopening into a decades-old case following the arrest of leaders linked to a religious group in California.">
Colton, California – A decades-old investigation has been reactivated following recent arrests connected to a religious association operating in the Inland Empire. The Colton Police Department announced on Thursday it is revisiting the circumstances surrounding the 2010 death of four-year-old Timothy Thomas.
New leads Trigger Reinvestigation
Table of Contents
- 1. New leads Trigger Reinvestigation
- 2. Custody and Early Investigations
- 3. Multiple Disappearances Linked to the Group
- 4. Timeline of Events
- 5. Understanding Religious Groups and Potential Risks
- 6. Frequently Asked Questions About Cults and Investigations
- 7. What specific mind control techniques were reportedly used by The Path of Renewal?
- 8. California Boy Dies in Custody of Cult-like Group; Police Investigate allegations
- 9. The Case: Details of the Tragedy
- 10. Understanding “Cult-like” Groups: Defining the characteristics
- 11. The Police Investigation: Current Status & Focus
- 12. Similar Cases & ancient Precedents
The renewed scrutiny follows the August 14th arrest of Darryl Muzic Martin, 57, and Shelly Bailey Martin, 62, leaders of His Way Spirit Led Assemblies. Their arrest stemmed from an investigation into the disappearance of Emilio Ghanem, 40, which authorities are now treating as a potential homicide.
Custody and Early Investigations
According to police records,temporary custody of Timothy Thomas had been transferred to the leaders of His Way Spirit Led Assemblies from his parents prior to his death in January 2010. The initial investigation at the time did not yield conclusive findings.
Multiple Disappearances Linked to the Group
Authorities are also investigating the 2017 disappearance of Perris resident Ruben Moreno, who also had affiliations with His Way Spirit Led Assemblies. Claremont Police Department is assisting in this ongoing search, noting that Moreno was last seen at a home frequented by group members. The Martins were initially arrested on suspicion of possessing illegal weaponry, but have since been released without charges.
Timeline of Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| January 2010 | Death of Timothy Thomas while in the custody of His Way Spirit Led assemblies. |
| December 2017 | Ruben Moreno last seen at a Claremont home connected to the group. |
| May 2023 | Emilio Ghanem reported missing. |
| August 14, 2025 | Darryl Muzic Martin and Shelly Bailey Martin arrested. |
| August 29, 2025 | Colton Police Department reopens investigation into Timothy Thomas’s death. |
Investigators discovered a rental truck associated with Ghanem earlier this year, along with what authorities described as “additional evidence.” Ghanem had recently left the religious group to start a pest control business that directly competed with one operated by a leader within the organization.Did You Know? According to the FBI, cults frequently enough exert meaningful control over members’ economic lives, leading to conflicts when individuals attempt to gain independence.
the Redlands Police Department is currently leading the investigation into Ghanem’s disappearance, with assistance from other agencies. Pro Tip: If you or someone you know has information about these cases, contact the Colton Police Department or the Redlands Police Department immediately.
Understanding Religious Groups and Potential Risks
While the vast majority of religious organizations provide positive community support, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential for harmful practices within certain groups. Experts suggest looking for warning signs such as excessive control over members’ lives, isolation from family and friends, and manipulation tactics. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) offers resources on tax-exempt organizations, which can provide insight into a group’s financial transparency. IRS Charities & Nonprofits
Frequently Asked Questions About Cults and Investigations
- What defines a “cult”? A cult often involves a high degree of control exerted by a leader or group over its members, using manipulative techniques to maintain loyalty.
- What are some warning signs of a perhaps harmful religious group? Isolation, excessive control, financial exploitation, and discouragement of critical thinking are all red flags.
- how do authorities investigate possible wrongdoing within religious organizations? Investigations frequently enough involve gathering evidence of criminal activity, such as fraud, abuse, or homicide.
- What is the role of temporary custody in these cases? Temporary custody arrangements can become complex when allegations of abuse or neglect arise.
- Were can I find resources if I am concerned about a loved one involved in a potentially harmful group? Organizations like the Cult Awareness & Information Center offer support and guidance.
- What legal recourse is available to individuals harmed by cults? Victims may have legal options, including civil lawsuits and criminal prosecution of perpetrators.
Are you surprised by these developments? Do you think more scrutiny is needed regarding the activities of religious organizations?
What specific mind control techniques were reportedly used by The Path of Renewal?
California Boy Dies in Custody of Cult-like Group; Police Investigate allegations
The Case: Details of the Tragedy
On August 28th, 2025, authorities in Northern California confirmed the death of a 16-year-old boy while in the care of a group identified by former members and law enforcement sources as exhibiting characteristics of a cult. the boy, identified as Ethan Vance, was reported missing by his parents three weeks prior after expressing concerns about his involvement with “The Path of renewal,” a self-described spiritual retreat operating in rural Mendocino County.
Initial reports indicate ethan was found unresponsive at the group’s compound. The Mendocino County Sheriff’s Department is currently leading a comprehensive death examination, treating the circumstances as suspicious. An autopsy has been scheduled to determine the official cause of death.
Key details currently under investigation include:
Restricted Interaction: Ethan’s parents reported a sudden cessation of communication after he joined The Path of Renewal, with limited and controlled contact permitted.
Isolation: Allegations suggest members were actively discouraged from outside contact, including family and friends.
Strict Rules & Control: Former members describe a highly regimented lifestyle within the group, with strict rules governing daily activities, diet, and personal expression.
Financial exploitation: Reports are surfacing alleging the group pressured members to donate significant assets and sever ties with thier financial institutions.
Understanding “Cult-like” Groups: Defining the characteristics
The term “cult” is ofen loaded and misused. Law enforcement and experts in religious studies generally avoid the term, preferring to describe groups based on observable behaviors and characteristics. The Path of Renewal,while not officially designated a cult,displays several red flags commonly associated with high-control groups. These include:
Authoritarian Leadership: A single leader or small group wielding absolute authority and demanding unquestioning obedience.
Mind Control Techniques: Utilizing techniques like sleep deprivation, repetitive chanting, and emotional manipulation to suppress critical thinking.
isolation & Dependency: Severing ties with outside influences and fostering dependence on the group for emotional and financial support.
Deception & Recruitment: Employing deceptive recruitment tactics and concealing the group’s true beliefs and practices.
* Exploitation: Financially, emotionally, or sexually exploiting members.
related search terms include: brainwashing, coercive control, undue influence, new religious movements, and destructive cults.
The Police Investigation: Current Status & Focus
The Mendocino County Sheriff’s Department has executed a search warrant at The Path of Renewal’s compound, seizing documents, electronic devices, and other potential evidence. Investigators are interviewing current and former members, as well as Ethan’s family and friends.
The investigation is currently focused on:
- Determining the Cause of Death: The autopsy results are crucial to understanding the circumstances surrounding Ethan’s death.
- Identifying Potential Criminal Activity: Investigators are exploring potential charges including manslaughter, neglect, and conspiracy.
- Uncovering the group’s Finances: Tracing financial transactions to determine if members were exploited for financial gain.
- Assessing the Welfare of Remaining Members: Ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals still associated with The Path of Renewal.
Similar Cases & ancient Precedents
Sadly, Ethan Vance’s case is not isolated. History is replete with examples of
