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Police Seek Help in Locating Missing Adults and Children Linked to Cult

BERKELEY, Mo. (First Alert 4) — The Berkeley Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in locating four adults and two children who have been missing since August. The group, known to have resided in a house on Graham Lane, is believed to have left suddenly, possibly to live “off the grid,” due to their association with a cult.

The individuals reported missing are identified as Mikayla Thompson, aged 25, her cousin Ma’Kayla Wickerson, also aged 25, and Ma’Kayla’s 3-year-old daughter. All three are from the St. Louis area.

Additionally, Naaman Williams, aged 29, Gerielle German, aged 26, and Gerielle’s 3-year-old son, Ashton Mitchell, all hailing from Mississippi, are also missing.

Cartisha Morgan, Ma’Kayla’s mother and grandmother to her daughter Malaiyah Wickerson, expressed her concern, stating, “She doesn’t usually behave like this. She’s typically very family-oriented. So, for her to cut off all contact, quit her job, and leave all her belongings behind is highly unusual.”

Suspected Cult and its Leader

According to the police, the missing adults are believed to be followers of cult leader Rashad Jamal. The cult, which remains unnamed, is associated with The College of Cosmic Intelligence, an online religious group that boasts thousands of followers.

Jamal, who has garnered a significant following on Instagram and TikTok, incorporates elements of polygamy, ancient mythology, cosmic universe beliefs, and sovereign citizenship to shape the ideology of his cult. Recently, he was convicted of child molestation in Barrow County, Georgia, and subsequently sentenced to prison.

Unusual Practices and Suspected Motives

Residents in the vicinity reported observing members of the group sitting in tall grass with their palms raised towards the sun on sunny days. Witnesses also claimed to have witnessed cult members hugging trees, performing penny burials, and standing naked in the rain in the backyard.

Based on information provided by an acquaintance of the missing St. Louis women, Berkeley police have been informed that the group may have deliberately chosen to live “off the grid” as they prepare for an impending event, potentially linked to their spiritual beliefs.

Cartisha Morgan pleaded, “I just want to know that they’re safe. If Ma’Kayla chooses to stay away or live off the grid, I implore her to inform us of her safety.”

Authorities revealed that the group vacated the residence in August, leaving all their belongings behind. Their last known sighting was on August 13 at the Quality Inn Hotel situated on Dunn Road in Florissant. The Berkeley Police Department is urging anyone with information on their whereabouts to contact them immediately.

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