This podcast explores the disturbing practices of the Holy Rollers sex cult, led by an abusive cult leader. Topics include strict control over followers' lives, disturbing rumos, shocking activities of the cult, formation of a vigilante mob, and the aftermath of the cult's move to Portland.
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Quick takeaways
Joshua Creffield forms a cult, advocating for nudity and leading to sexual relationships within the group, highlighting the power dynamics and tragic consequences that can arise within cults.
The cult's actions lead to public outrage, legal trials, and violence, exposing the societal challenges in addressing cult dynamics, gender roles, and the limits of legal justice.
After being released from prison, Joshua Creffield divorces one of his wives and remarries her, claiming to be Jesus himself, showcasing the devoted loyalty of his followers despite legal consequences and social backlash.
Deep dives
The Cult Leader's Disappearance and Reemergence
After being missing for several months, Joshua Creffield is discovered living naked under the foundation of a house by a young boy. He is arrested, but released after serving 17 months in prison. Upon his release, he reassembles his cult and continues his charismatic leadership.
Involuntary Commitments
As the community becomes increasingly concerned about the actions of the cult members, many of them, including the Hurts and Esther Mitchell, are involuntarily committed to insane asylums. Institutionalization is common during this time period, affecting one out of every 200 Oregonians.
Creffield Declares Himself as Jesus
After his release from prison, Creffield divorces one of his wives and remarries her, claiming to be Jesus himself. His followers, including his wives and Esther Mitchell, remain devoted to him despite legal consequences and social backlash.
The Rise and Fall of Joshua Creffield
Joshua Creffield, a self-proclaimed messiah, forms a cult in Corvallis, Oregon. He gains a following of primarily women, which angers the local men and upsets the balance of the community. Creffield advocates for nudity, leading to sexual relationships within the cult. The cult eventually moves to Portland, where Creffield's actions and influence continue. Creffield is shot and killed by a man seeking revenge for his sisters' involvement with the cult. Creffield's closest followers, including his wife and sister, later commit suicide. This story highlights the power dynamics, hypocrisy, and tragic consequences that can arise within cults.
The Controversies and Trials
The cult's actions lead to public outrage, accusations of adultery, and legal trials. Creffield's followers face public condemnation and ostracism due to their perceived role as vulnerable, easily led astray women. The men of the community feel anger and betrayal, leading to violence, such as tar and feathering. The justice system struggles to hold individuals accountable, with courtroom trials resulting in inconsistent verdicts. The story underscores societal challenges in addressing the complexities of cult dynamics, gender roles, and the limits of legal justice.