Cult Leader and Followers Arrested at Alabama Campsite

Authorities arrested several members of a religious group in rural Alabama, led by a man who claims to be the reincarnation of Jesus Christ. The arrests took place at a campsite near the community of Empire, where approximately 15 followers had been living for five months under the leadership of Lando, who refers to himself as “the only begotten son of the living God” and heads the organization known as More than the Prophet Ministries.

On December 5, 2023, Walker County Sheriff Nick Smith announced that law enforcement, supported by the Blount County Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, executed a search warrant at the site following an extensive investigation. Sheriff Smith confirmed that some individuals associated with the group were taken into custody, while others were permitted to leave after collecting their belongings.

In a video statement, Sheriff Smith indicated that Lando, also known as Reverend Lamp, reported that three members had been arrested for declining to provide their names to the authorities. During the search, Lando claimed that he and his followers were handcuffed and made to lie face down. He further alleged that agents questioned them about their U.S. citizenship, although the specific involvement of Homeland Security remains unclear.

During the operation, law enforcement officials discovered one firearm and narcotics at the campsite. Lando asserted that the firearm belonged to a former resident of the camp, while the drugs identified were marijuana. He stated that the group relocated from Arkansas to Alabama about five months ago, living on property owned by a woman to whom he pays monthly rent.

The group had previously received notice to vacate the premises in November. While some members had already departed, others were preparing to move by the end of December when the search warrant was executed. Lando expressed frustration over the situation, stating, “If you would have just woke me up, and said ‘Hey man, y’all are supposed to be gone,’ ‘Yeah, we’re leaving today!’”

Lando indicated that the group intends to comply with the authorities’ orders but emphasized that he wished the situation had been handled differently. As the investigation continues, the Independent has reached out to Sheriff Smith, the Blount County Sheriff’s Office, and the Department of Homeland Security for further comments.