48 Hours Mystery Season 30 Episode 26 The Family: A Cult Revealed [Part 1]

In the 30th season of the popular true crime series 48 Hours, episode 26 titled "The Family: A Cult Revealed [Part 1]" delves into a mysterious and shocking case of brainwashing and manipulation. The episode follows the story of a young woman named Shanell who was born into and raised in a religious community known as The Family. The Family was founded in the 1960s by a charismatic man named David Berg, who proclaimed himself to be a prophet and messiah. The group held unorthodox beliefs, including communal living, polygamy, and the practice of free love.

Shanell spent her entire life as a member of The Family and never knew any other existence. However, when she was in her 20s, she decided to leave the group and was shocked at what she discovered. She found out that her mother and siblings had cut off all contact with her and believed that she was a traitor to their cause. Shanell soon discovered that her family members were not the only ones under the control of The Family. David Berg had created a cult-like community that operated under strict rules and hierarchy, with him at the top as the supreme leader.

As 48 Hours investigates this case, they speak with Shanell and others who have fled The Family and share their experiences of being brainwashed and manipulated. The show also speaks with former members who have stayed with The Family and still believe in David Berg's teachings. The program reveals how The Family has been able to evade prosecution for decades despite allegations of child abuse and other illegal activities.

This gripping two-part episode of 48 Hours promises to shed light on the inner workings of a cult and the devastating effects it can have on both the individual and their loved ones. Through interviews and investigative work, the show explores how The Family was able to maintain its power and control over its members and why so many still remain dedicated to its cause. This first part of "The Family: A Cult Revealed" sets the stage for a riveting exploration of one of the most shocking cases of religious brainwashing in recent history.