Federal agents have raided the California home of Robert Shinn, a pastor at the center of Netflix’s docuseries “Dancing for the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult,” as part of an investigation into sex trafficking and other serious criminal allegations.
Federal Agents Descend on Pastor’s Property
On July 27, federal agents executed warrants at a property in Tujunga, California, partially owned by Robert Shinn. The early morning raid involved personnel from the FBI, IRS, U.S. Postal Service, and Department of Labor.
The warrants were served in connection with a wide range of serious charges, including sex trafficking, money laundering, mail fraud, tax evasion, and COVID-19-related fraud. Footage from KTLA showed at least six individuals being handled by police in handcuffs, with one woman seen holding a child.
This is the same property featured prominently in the Netflix documentary, which detailed accusations against Shinn of running a “cult” disguised as a talent management firm and religious group. A witness reported hearing a flash-bang grenade around 6 a.m. during the operation.
Who is Robert Shinn?
Robert Shinn is a self-proclaimed pastor who founded Shekinah Church in 1994. In 2021, he also established 7M Films, a talent management company focused on TikTok dancers.
According to the Netflix documentary, many dancers recruited through 7M Films were allegedly coerced into joining Shekinah Church. They were reportedly pressured to sever ties with their families and subjected to various forms of manipulation.
Former associates featured in the documentary leveled serious accusations against Shinn, including manipulation, spiritual abuse, financial exploitation, and even sexual assault. For instance, dancer Aubrey Fisher claimed the pastor forced him to give up to 70% of his income to the church, including a “man of God” fee.
Another former member, Melanie Goldman, recounted witnessing girls “screaming at the top of their lungs” inside the church. The documentary also highlighted the story of TikTok dancer Melanie Wilking, who tearfully pleaded for her sister Miranda, claiming Miranda was “no longer in control” of her life after joining 7M. The sisters, popular on TikTok, had stopped speaking but have since reconciled.
Denials and Ongoing Investigation
Despite the mounting backlash and scrutiny, Robert Shinn has consistently denied all claims of abuse or wrongdoing. He maintains that Shekinah Church and 7M Films are separate entities.
In 2022, Shinn filed a defamation lawsuit against several former members who publicly referred to his organization as a cult. The Netflix documentary noted at the time that no criminal charges had been filed against him.
However, the recent federal raid suggests that law enforcement agencies are now investigating the serious allegations more actively. The investigation is currently ongoing, with federal officials continuing to collect information. As of now, no charges have been filed.
- Robert Shinn’s California home was raided by federal agents investigating sex trafficking and other alleged crimes.
- Shinn is the controversial pastor behind Netflix’s ‘Dancing for the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult’ docuseries.
- Former members accuse Shinn of manipulation, financial exploitation, and spiritual abuse through his church and management company.
- Shinn has denied all allegations and previously filed defamation lawsuits against accusers.
- The investigation is ongoing, and no charges have been filed yet.
Authorities continue to gather details as the public awaits further developments in this high-profile case.
