Sam Shetler, a leader at the Mercy and Truth Amish and Mennonite Retreat in Missouri, has been charged with multiple serious crimes following a lengthy investigation into his actions at the retreat.
Shetler, 42, was arrested in March after the Cooper County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) uncovered disturbing evidence of abuse, exploitation, and misconduct that allegedly occurred over several years.
Allegations of Exploitation and Abuse
The retreat, which operated under Shetler’s leadership, was reportedly used as a place where vulnerable people were manipulated and forced into various forms of labor and control for Shetler’s benefit. Authorities state that Shetler exploited his position within the Amish community to coerce and control individuals, leading to a range of criminal acts.
Baby’s Death and Claims of Medical Misconduct
One of the most alarming allegations involves the death of a 6-month-old baby at the retreat. Shetler, who allegedly posed as a holistic doctor with medical expertise, provided a breathing treatment using lavender oil in a diffuser to the sick child, who had been ill for about four days.
After Shetler put the baby down for a nap and instructed the parents on how to use the oil themselves, the parents later found their child unresponsive and blue about an hour later.
The infant was pronounced dead at the scene, and an autopsy revealed the child had died from pneumonia, despite the claims of Shetler’s treatment.
Additional Abuse Allegations
Beyond the death of the baby, several women who had stayed at the retreat made serious allegations against Shetler. One woman claimed that Shetler made unwanted sexual contact and threatened to kidnap her to prevent her from leaving.
Additionally, three other women, who were between 19 and 20 years old at the time, reported witnessing Shetler pulling out a young boy’s teeth and forcing male victims to work at his private businesses. The women also alleged that they were coerced into taking up to 80 pills a day during their time at the retreat.
New Charges and Revocation of Bond
On April 21, 2026, prosecutors filed additional charges against Shetler, including four counts of first-degree kidnapping, first-degree sexual abuse, first-degree involuntary manslaughter, and another count of trafficking for the purposes of forced labor. As a result, Shetler’s bond was revoked.
Legal Defense and Next Steps
Shetler has pleaded not guilty to all charges. It is unclear whether he has legal representation at this time, as his attorney has not made a public statement. The investigation is ongoing, and more charges could be filed as authorities continue to uncover evidence related to Shetler’s actions at the retreat.
This case has raised significant concerns about the exploitation of vulnerable individuals and the misuse of trust within religious communities, particularly in cases involving fraudulent claims of medical expertise and the manipulation of individuals for labor.
