FBI investigating 2x2 religious sect operating in
Bay Area following alleged child sex abuse
SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- The FBI is investigating a religious sect that's facing widespread allegations of child sex abuse. They're called the Two by Twos (2x2) or The Church with No Name - and there's a following here in the Bay Area.
72 miles south of San Francisco, in a remote isolated location of San Martin, a special meeting took place where a group of people preached their version of the gospel.
What is the 2X2 religious sect?
It's a non-denominational Christian religious sect that's been around since the late 1800s. It was founded by Scottish evangelist William Irvine. Historical records suggest it wasn't until the early 1900s, the ministry set roots in the Bay Area.
"It's a very persuasive type of religion," said former member Michael Day.
"How would you describe this organization?" ABC's Stephanie Sierra asked.
"They use fear and manipulation, they manipulate people and the fear of the Lord to control people," said LaNette Burrage Flanigan, another former member. "They tell you, we are the only true way."
The Two by Twos are often referred to today as "The Truth" by its followers. According to the ministry's doctrine, this is the only way to find true salvation.
"Do you think they're being truthful?" Sierra asked.
"No, they're not," said Flanigan, a former member who says some members of her family were victims of child sex abuse. "I'm just broken. I could cry right now, it makes me sick."
"His type was small framed brunette girls," said another former member Sheri Autrey, who identifies as a survivor of child sex abuse.
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