The Walker County Sheriff's Office, the Blount County Sheriff's Office and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security worked together on a months-long investigation into a group of people who were allegedly squatting at Empire campground.
Walker County Sheriff Nick Smith said during a search of the property, investigators found illegal narcotics, a handgun, and identified 15 individuals from all over the United States. Some were unable to be identified, but the sheriff suspects up to 40 people were living there, claiming to be part of a religious group.
The group's leader goes by "Prophetic Lamb" on Facebook. He calls himself the second coming of Christ and says he has been resurrected. He regularly smokes while delivering what he says is a word straight from God. He had a message after the campsite was raided.
"And let me say this for the news," he said. "Look, I ain't make no threat to nobody. No f***ing Walker County. You lying ass, f***ing little smuts. Mother f***ers pulled on up on us pulling out guns, talking sh**, stupid b****es.
The self-proclaimed prophet claimed the group was targeted because they are all black. He also claimed to be Martin Luther King, Jr. and said he was not coming with peace anymore because the last time he did that, he was killed.
The man said since they are all black and all black people are good, they are going to "knock off everybody who ain't black." One follower agreed, saying it sounds like a good idea to knock off everybody who isn't black because "black ppl really at war."
The investigation started after complaints of gunshots and other noises were reported. The sheriff said indirect threats to the community were posted on Facebook by the people living there.
The investigation is ongoing, and so far, only three people have been arrested for obstruction of justice.
The unidentified man said he and his family are now searching for a place to stay in Birmingham.
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