AUGUSTA, Ga. () – The U.S. Department of Justice says 8 people were indicted on 26 charges for fraud schemes and tax matters.
That includes the founder of the House of Prayer, Rony Denis, who lives in that home, and was taken into custody Wednesday morning.
He is now in the Jefferson County jail.
The FBI is releasing more information about these arrests.
“The indictment marks the end of many years of thorough investigation,” stated Brian Ozden, assistant special agent in charge of the FBI-Atlanta division.
Court documents show the FBI has been looking into the House of Prayer founder, Rony Denis, since as early as July 1983.
Three years ago, FBI agents raided the House of Prayer churches in Hinesville and Hephzibah as part of a fraud investigation.
Investigators claim that church leaders coerced members into sharing personal details, arranged marriages under pressure, and compelled them to reside in properties that produced rental income for the accused.
Officials say some of those victims are veterans across the district.
“The House of Prayer operators took advantage of veterans and their families by misusing VA funds for personal gain,” said Katie O’Neil, special agent in charge of the Department of Veterans Affairs.
The U.S. Army Criminal Investigations Division says following these actions, they will pursue those responsible.
“We will fervently pursue anyone attempting to misuse the trust, confidence, and sacrifices provided by our service members who have earned these benefits but find themselves targeted and exploited,” stated Ryan O’Conner.
Then, Wednesday morning, agents raided Denis’ West Lake home in Columbia County.
He is now up against multiple charges, including conspiracy to commit bank fraud, aiding in the submission of a fraudulent tax return, and conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
The FBI says they’re now turning this investigation towards helping more victims, and bringing them justice.
“The FBI is diligently seeking more victims of fraud schemes. So, if you or someone you know engaged with the House of Prayer Christian Churches of America, or the House of Prayer Bible Seminary, and suspect misuse of your personal information, benefits, or finances—we urge you to come forward,” said Ozden.
“Your voice matters. Reporting your experiences may help us uncover the scope of harm, and hold all those responsible accountable,” Ozden said. “It takes exceptional courage to come forward, and we recognize that. The FBI and our partners will do everything we can to protect you in that endeavor.”
If you feel you are a victim, the FBI is encouraging you to contact them at fbi.gov/hopccvictims, or calling the FBI hotline number at 1 (800) CALL-FBI.
