Robert Shinn is an 87-year-old pastor and entrepreneur who founded Shekinah Church in 1994 and 7M Films in 2021. He has faced multiple allegations of exploitation and abuse from former members, leading to civil lawsuits and a federal investigation in July 2025 involving sex trafficking and fraud allegations.
Who Is Robert Shinn?
Robert Shinn, born November 28, 1937, in California, has become one of the most controversial figures in recent entertainment and religious circles. The 87-year-old pastor owns at least twelve entertainment-adjacent businesses in California, including his main ventures: Shekinah Church and 7M Films talent management company.
His story represents a complex intersection of faith, entertainment, and alleged exploitation that has captured national attention, particularly after the release of Netflix’s 2024 documentary series “Dancing for the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult.”
While Shinn maintains he’s simply a man of faith running legitimate businesses, former members paint a starkly different picture—one of manipulation, control, and abuse hidden behind promises of spiritual salvation and social media stardom.
The Origins of Shekinah Church
Shinn established Shekinah Church in 1994, initially serving as a religious community for Korean Americans in Los Angeles. His sister Catherine Yi played a crucial role in the early days, using her connections to establish the initial church community. However, her involvement ended amid serious allegations in the early 2000s.
From its inception, Shekinah operated as a tight-knit, invite-only congregation. Former members who joined the church in 2001 report experiencing decades of alleged abuse before eventually leaving. The church’s mission, according to its website, centers on saving one billion souls and training followers to develop divine characteristics.
What set Shekinah apart from mainstream Christian churches was Shinn’s approach to leadership. Former members describe a religious environment where Shinn positioned himself as an almost messianic figure—someone whose guidance was essential for salvation. Members were taught that without Shinn’s leadership, they and their families would be cursed and lose their chance at salvation.
The Birth of 7M Films
In 2021, Shinn and his son, Isaiah Shinn, founded 7M Films, a Los Angeles-based talent management company focused on social media influencers, particularly TikTok dancers, which has been linked to Robert Shinn. The company’s website claims impressive growth, stating that its clients’ collective social media following expanded from 1.78 million to 10.42 million since the company’s inception.
Unlike traditional talent agencies that represent established actors, 7M Films carved out a unique niche. The company specifically targeted talented dancers, singers, musicians, and performers with the skills necessary to go viral on TikTok. They provided comprehensive production resources, including hair styling, makeup, wardrobe, and filming locations.
However, 7M Films wasn’t Shinn’s first attempt at Hollywood success. Records show he had produced several films earlier in his career, including “Abducted” (2018), “Closure” (2010), and “#hellogorgeous,” though these projects received limited attention compared to his later social media ventures.
While Shinn and 7M Films publicly deny any business connection between the church and the management company, court documents tell a different story. In a 2022 lawsuit filed by Shinn himself, he described how various for-profit businesses were established as part of the church’s mission to support religious efforts.
The Wilking Family Controversy
The allegations against Robert Shinn and 7M Films exploded into public consciousness in 2022 when the Wilking family made a desperate plea for help. Sisters Miranda and Melanie Wilking had built a successful dance partnership on TikTok, accumulating millions of followers and lucrative brand deals. Their close relationship and family bonds seemed unbreakable—until Miranda signed with 7M Films.
Melanie Wilking and her parents, Kelly and Dean, publicly suggested in 2022 that 7M was a cult and that Miranda was being manipulated and exploited. The family described how Miranda had cut off nearly all contact with them, blocking even her grandmother on social media platforms.
Miranda, who married fellow 7M dancer James “BDash” Derrick in 2021, maintains she’s not being held against her will. In a statement following the Netflix documentary’s release, she explained that she had asked her family for space to explore her new faith journey, but they didn’t honor that request. She described feeling frustrated and annoyed by what she perceived as overbearing behavior.
The Wilking family’s story became the centerpiece of Netflix’s three-part documentary series, which brought widespread attention to the alleged practices within both 7M Films and Shekinah Church. Director Derek Doneen expressed awe at the families who allowed cameras to document their tireless efforts to rescue their loved ones.
Allegations and Legal Battles
The accusations against Robert Shinn span decades and involve multiple former church members and 7M clients. Understanding these allegations requires examining the pattern of behavior former members describe.
Financial Exploitation Claims
Former dancers who left 7M say that Shinn mandated that they turn over a large portion of their earnings to the church. Several lawsuits detail specific financial arrangements that former members claim were exploitative.
In 2009, Lydia Chung filed a lawsuit claiming Shinn had isolated her from family, brainwashed her, and defrauded her of nearly $4 million through the church. She also alleged the church made her work six days a week without pay. While a judge ultimately ruled in favor of Shinn, Chung has maintained that the trial was unjust.
In 2011, Jung Hee Lee sued Shinn for allegedly forcing her to work full-time for only a $30 weekly stipend. She won that case, and Shinn was ordered to pay her the compensation she should have received.
Sexual Abuse Allegations
Multiple women have accused Shinn of sexual assault over the years, prompting investigations by the El Monte Police Department. Attorney Ron Joy alleges that Shinn has changed his name and was previously accused of sexual assault by no less than six women.
However, criminal investigations into these allegations have not resulted in charges. Two sexual battery cases filed against Shinn in Los Angeles were rejected by law enforcement, who cited insufficient evidence and significant delays in reporting as reasons for not bringing charges.
Control and Manipulation
Perhaps the most consistent allegations involve psychological control. Dancers who left 7M describe how Shinn exercised extreme control over them, from dictating how their dance routines should look to making financial decisions. On a personal level, dancers were encouraged to cut ties with family and loved ones who were not part of 7M and Shekinah.
Former 7M dancer Kylie Douglas explained the aftermath of leaving: “It’s almost like you’re relearning how to be you again.” She described having to transition from seeking Shinn’s approval for everything to making independent decisions once more.
The 2023 Civil Lawsuit
In March 2023, former dancers and members of Shekinah Church filed a civil lawsuit against Shinn, 7M, Shekinah, and other defendants, alleging they subjected people to brainwashing, physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, manipulation, and exploitation. The lawsuit directly states that “Shekinah is a cult” that engages in despicable illegal behavior, which remains an active case in the courts.
The legal battle actually began in October 2022 when Shinn sued former church members and moderators of social media accounts that were posting about him and Shekinah Church, claiming defamation. The former members then filed a countersuit with expanded allegations. The case remains ongoing with both sides denying the other’s claims.
The July 2025 Federal Raid
The investigation into Robert Shinn reached a dramatic turning point in the summer of 2025. On July 25, 2025, a home linked to pastor Robert Shinn was raided by federal agents in relation to an investigation into sex trafficking, money laundering, tax evasion, and COVID-19 pandemic-era-related fraud.
FBI agents and the El Monte Tactical Team conducted a raid at a home located in the 7700 block of McGroarty around 6 a.m. Law enforcement sources told FOX 11 that five warrants were served at five different properties. Multiple individuals were detained during the operation.
Robert Shinn was detained at one of the properties, though he was not arrested. The distinction is important—detention means he was temporarily held for questioning during the raid, but no formal charges were filed at that time.
According to legal expert Mary David, the potential charges Shinn could face carry serious penalties, especially as the feds raids continue to investigate. The sex trafficking charge alone carries a sentence of 15 years to life in prison. David explained that coercion becomes especially sinister when it involves a religious leader, as followers may believe they’re risking their salvation by not complying with demands.
The U.S. Postal Inspection Service confirmed its involvement, stating they’re working closely with local, state, and federal law enforcement partners. As of late 2025, federal authorities were reportedly planning to present the case to a grand jury, though no charges have been filed.
Robert Shinn’s Business Empire
Beyond Shekinah Church and 7M Films, Shinn controls an extensive network of businesses. His portfolio includes Glory Bag Records, IP Random Film, IHD Studio, Shinn Entertainment Corp., RCP Financial, and Alpha Plus Realty.
This business structure has raised questions among investigators and critics. Former member Lydia Chung told reporters that Shinn’s plan to come to California three decades ago was motivated by proximity to Hollywood and the entertainment industry. She recalled him saying that people who want fame and money go to Hollywood, suggesting this was a calculated strategy rather than a divine calling, a theme explored in the recent docuseries.
Shinn’s estimated net worth stands at $15 million, according to multiple sources. He shares ownership of multiple properties in Los Angeles, including locations in Studio City, Porter Ranch, and Tujunga. Some of these properties have been used as filming locations for 7M content creators.
His family has been deeply integrated into his business operations with the company 7M Films. Hannah Shinn, his current wife, holds the title of “Woman of God” within Shekinah Church and serves as chief financial officer, managing dancers’ bookings and schedules. His son, Isaiah Shin,n has been credited with filming numerous 7M videos and played a key role in founding the company.
However, not all family members have remained loyal. One of his children, singer-songwriter Kloë Shinn, defected from the church in 2022 with her husband, Daniel Joseph, which has been covered by various media outlets linked to Robert Shinn. Her music has appeared on shows like “Queer Eye” and “The Real Housewives,” as well as in the 2013 film “Random Encounters” starring Meghan Markle—a project produced by her father, Robert Israel Shinn.
Current Members and Departures
The roster of 7M Films and Shekinah Church has seen significant turnover, particularly following the Netflix documentary’s release. Miranda Derrick remains the most high-profile current member, along with her husband James “BDash” Derrick. Other current members include dancer Vik White, Nicholas “Raino” Raiano, and Kendra “KO” Willis with her husband Cesare “Tighteyex” Willis.
Former members who have spoken publicly about their experiences include Aubrey Fisher-Greene, Kevin “Konkrete” Davis, Kailea Gray, and the previously mentioned Kylie Douglas. These individuals have provided testimonies about their time within the organization, describing patterns of control and manipulation.
The Lee sisters—Priscylla and Melanie Lee—represent an earlier generation of Shekinah members who joined the church in 2001. Their experiences parallel those of the Wilking sisters, though separated by nearly two decades. Documentary director Derek Doneen noted that the sisters were in Shekinah for decades and experienced significant pain trying to come back together and rebuild their relationship after leaving.
Where Is Robert Shinn Now?
Despite facing allegations of abuse and exploitation, Robert Shinn has not been criminally charged. He continues to lead Shekinah Church and 7M Films. Little is publicly known about his day-to-day life, as he maintains an extremely low profile and did not participate in the Netflix documentary.
Shinn lives in Los Angeles, reportedly in the Porter Ranch area, though he owns multiple properties throughout the city. His son Isaiah continues to work alongside him in the family’s various business ventures.
The Shekinah Church website remains active, continuing to promote its mission of saving one billion souls, as highlighted in a recent docuseries. The church appears to still conduct regular services, though it maintains no public social media presence beyond the basic website, which is often discussed in the docuseries.
7M Films also remains operational, with its Instagram account and website still active. Following the Netflix documentary’s release, the company issued a statement calling the series a “slanderous work of fiction, born from a failed extortion attempt.” The company has vowed to pursue legal remedies against what it characterizes as the spread of lies.
Shinn himself has remained publicly silent about the allegations, choosing to address them only through legal channels. His representatives have consistently denied all accusations of wrongdoing, maintaining that members and clients are free to make their own choices.
The Broader Implications
The Robert Shinn case raises important questions about the intersection of religion, entertainment, and exploitation in the digital age. Cult expert Steven Hassan, who reviewed the Netflix documentary, believes Shinn and 7M exhibit traits of a rapidly growing “brainwashing cult” disguised as a religious movement called “New Apostolic Reformation.”
Hassan explains that these groups are characterized by leaders who claim to be apostles or prophets receiving direct revelations from God. They typically claim abilities like speaking in tongues, casting out demons, and performing faith healings—all practices former Shekinah members have described witnessing under the leadership of the pastor of the Shekinah Church.
The use of social media platforms like TikTok to recruit young, talented individuals represents a modern twist on traditional cult recruitment tactics. By offering legitimate management services and real opportunities for viral success, 7M Films could attract ambitious dancers who might otherwise be skeptical of joining a religious organization.
The challenges families face when trying to reconnect with loved ones in alleged cult situations remain profound. The Wilking family’s public plea helped bring attention to these issues, but Miranda Derrick continues to maintain that her involvement is voluntary and that the documentary presents a one-sided narrative.
Expert Perspectives on Cult Dynamics
Understanding how intelligent, capable people can become involved in alleged cult situations requires examining the psychology of influence and control. Religious leaders who position themselves as essential intermediaries between followers and God wield enormous psychological power.
Legal expert Mary David explained that coercion involving a religious leader is particularly powerful because victims may believe they’re risking their salvation or the salvation of others if they don’t comply. This creates a form of control that goes beyond ordinary employment relationships or even typical religious communities.
Former members describe a gradual process of isolation from outside support systems, increased dependence on the leader for decision-making, and a redefinition of reality where questioning becomes synonymous with spiritual failure. By the time members recognize these patterns, they may have already severed ties with people who could help them leave.
The financial arrangements also create practical barriers to departure. When members have turned over substantial earnings to the church and live in church-owned housing, leaving means starting over with limited resources—a daunting prospect that can keep people trapped even when they want to escape.
FAQs
Is Robert Shinn in jail or facing criminal charges?
No, Robert Shinn has not been arrested or charged with any crimes. While he was detained during a July 2025 federal raid involving sex trafficking and fraud allegations, he was not arrested. As of late 2025, he remains free while federal authorities continue their investigation. A civil lawsuit against him is ongoing.
What is the connection between 7M Films and Shekinah Church, especially regarding the pastor featured in recent media?
While Shinn and 7M Films publicly deny any business connection between the church and the management company, court documents filed by Shinn himself describe how his for-profit businesses were established to support the church’s religious mission. Former members report that church involvement was strongly encouraged or required for 7M clients.
What happened to the Wilking sisters?
Melanie Wilking left 7M Films and has been vocal about her concerns for her sister. Miranda Wilking (now Miranda Derrick) remains with 7M Films and Shekinah Church. She is married to fellow 7M dancer James Derrick and maintains limited contact with her family. Miranda insists she is there voluntarily, despite the ongoing scrutiny surrounding the pastor of the Shekinah Church.
Has anyone successfully left 7M and Shekinah Church?
Yes, multiple former members have left and spoken publicly about their experiences, including dancers Kylie Douglas, Aubrey Fisher-Greene, Kevin Davis, and Kailea Gray. Former church members Priscylla Lee and Melanie Lee Goldman have also left and are involved in the civil lawsuit against Shinn. Shinn’s own daughter, Kloë Shinn, left the church in 2022.
What is the status of the legal cases against Robert Shinn?
Two sexual battery investigations were closed in April 2024 without charges due to insufficient evidence and delays in reporting. A civil lawsuit filed in March 2023 by former members remains ongoing, with both sides denying the other’s allegations. The case was scheduled for trial in 2025. Additionally, federal authorities are investigating allegations of sex trafficking, money laundering, tax evasion, and fraud following the July 2025 raid.
How does 7M Films make money?
7M Films operates as a talent management company, taking a percentage of earnings from brand partnerships, sponsored content, and other opportunities secured for their social media influencer clients. Former members allege they were required to turn over large portions of their earnings to Shekinah Church beyond standard management fees.
Conclusion
The story of Robert Shinn, Shekinah Church, and 7M Films represents one of the most troubling intersections of faith, entertainment, and alleged exploitation in recent years. What began as a small Korean American church in 1994 has evolved into a network of businesses and followers that has torn apart families and sparked federal investigations.
While Shinn maintains his innocence and characterizes allegations as persecution, the volume and consistency of accusations from former members paint a disturbing picture. The ongoing legal battles and federal investigation may eventually provide more definitive answers about what really happened behind the closed doors of Shekinah Church and within the operations of 7M Films.
For families like the Wilkings, the pain of estrangement continues. For former members who have left, the process of rebuilding their lives and identities remains ongoing. And for current members who insist they’re participating voluntarily, questions linger about the true nature of their involvement and whether they’ll eventually share the regrets of those who came before them.
The case serves as a stark reminder about the importance of maintaining connections with loved ones, questioning authority figures who demand isolation from outside support systems, and remaining vigilant about organizations that blur the lines between business, faith, and control—particularly when promises of success and salvation come at the price of personal autonomy and family bonds.
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