People Magazine Investigates: The Secrets of the Twelve Tribes

Started in the early 1970s by founder Gene Spriggs, the Twelve Tribes organization quickly became popular with people in search of a simpler, more idyllic peaceful life. Spriggs and the group promised an escape from the modern pressures of society and a return to living life in accordance with the Old Testament. However, some discovered quickly that life within Twelve Tribes was not what it was made out to be. After members sacrificed their 'earthly possessions' to join the group, allegedly handing over their life savings, some claimed they were forced into excruciating mandatory labor, that children were allegedly exposed to severe corporal punishment, and that access to modern medical care was terrifyingly prohibited. PEOPLE MAGAZINE INVESTIGATES: THE SECRETS OF THE TWELVE TRIBES CULT goes inside this harrowing reality and elevates the voices of those who escaped but remain shunned by loved ones or family members still within the group.