by Redlands, CA – Two senior members of a “cult-like” religious group operating near Palm Springs, California, have been arrested on suspicion of murder in the long-unsolved disappearance of one of their own members, authorities announced Thursday. The arrest comes three years after the victim was last seen leaving a Starbucks, marking a major development in a case that has troubled investigators for years.
High-Ranking Cult Members Taken Into Custody
The Redlands Police Department confirmed the arrests of Darryl Martin, 58, the alleged leader of the group, and Rudy Moreno, 43, described as a high-ranking member. Both men were arrested at the group’s headquarters and booked on charges of murder and illegal firearms possession. Authorities said the suspects are being held without bail.
The group, known as “His Way Spirit Led Assemblies,” has been under active investigation since May 2023, following the disappearance of former member Emilio Ghanem, 40.
Victim Disappeared After Leaving the Group
According to police, Ghanem was reported missing shortly after he left the religious organization. Surveillance footage captured him driving a rented Nissan Frontier pickup truck in Grand Terrace, which marked the last confirmed sighting of him alive.
For nearly three years, the case remained a missing persons investigation, with few answers for Ghanem’s family—until a critical discovery in August 2025 changed everything.
Missing Person Case Turns Into Homicide Investigation
On August 1, 2025, investigators located Ghanem’s pickup truck, prompting authorities to reclassify the case as a possible homicide, according to reports. Inside the vehicle, police recovered personal belongings and evidence, though officials have not publicly detailed the items found.
Less than a month later, on August 27, Martin and his wife, Shelly Bailey “Kat” Martin, were previously arrested on suspicion of possessing illegal weapons. However, no charges were filed at the time. Police said Shelly Martin, who reportedly refers to herself as a “prophetess,” was released due to a medical episode.
Search Warrants Executed in Hemet
As part of the homicide investigation, police executed a search at a residence on Pleasant Street in Hemet, located approximately 45 miles from Palm Springs and about 75 miles from Temecula. Authorities have not confirmed whether human remains were found but described the search as a key part of the ongoing case.
Investigators believe the religious group maintained strict control over its members and operated in a manner described by former followers as “cult-like.”
Former Members Describe Control and Financial Exploitation
Former members told local media outlets that the group stockpiled packaged food, water, and survival supplies, allegedly in preparation for end times scenarios. Others described intense control over finances and employment.
Police said Ghanem was a devoted member of the group for nearly 20 years. During that time, he started a pest control company in Nashville before returning to California to operate a satellite office. Members of the religious group reportedly worked at the business, known as Fullshield Inc., now operating under the name “Maxguard.”
According to investigators and former members, all company profits were turned over to the group’s leaders, allegedly generating more than $2 million per year.
Authorities Investigating Additional Possible Crimes
Police have indicated that Darryl Martin may also be connected to other disturbing cases, including the death of a 4-year-old child in Colton and the disappearance of two men. Those cases remain under investigation, and no additional charges have been announced.
Officials say the scope of the investigation is expanding as detectives review financial records, witness statements, and potential links to other unresolved cases across Southern California.
A Long-Awaited Break for the Victim’s Family
For Ghanem’s family, the arrests mark a long-awaited step toward accountability after years of uncertainty. Investigators emphasized that the case remains active and urged anyone with information about the group or its leaders to come forward.
“This investigation is far from over,” police said in a statement, adding that more arrests could be possible.
What Do You Think?
Should authorities more closely monitor organizations accused of cult-like behavior? Do you believe earlier intervention could have prevented this tragedy? Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the discussion.
