Arvin Shreeve: Unraveling the Enigma of a Controversial Figure
Arvin Shreeve’s Life and Excommunication
Arvin Shreeve, a longtime resident of Weber County and former landscaper for Ogden City, found his life taking an unexpected turn when he was excommunicated from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints due to his promotion of unconventional practices contrary to church teachings.
Arvin Shreeve’s Early Background
Arvin Shreeve, initially a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, faced excommunication as his unconventional beliefs clashed with the church’s doctrines. While working as a landscaper in Ogden City, Shreeve’s journey eventually led him to establish his own controversial cult.
The Emergence of “The Company”
Shreeve’s cult, named “The Company,” became a magnet for individuals who had been excommunicated from the LDS church. About 70 members, all residing in the same neighborhood, were drawn to Shreeve’s unconventional ideologies.
Unveiling Disturbing Beliefs
The cult’s ideology took a dark turn as it propagated the belief that female members needed to engage in same-sex relationships to demonstrate their spirituality and piety. Shreeve organized men to oversee groups of females, ranging from 4 to 60 years old, forming what they termed as “Sister Councils.” These councils controlled every aspect of the women’s lives, from their diets to their finances.
Shreeve’s Manipulative Authority
Arvin Shreeve, the self-proclaimed leader, established a council of 28 women who regarded him as their eternal male companion. This hierarchical structure allowed him to wield control over the lives of these women, fostering an environment of manipulation and exploitation.
Investigation and Exposure
The turning point came when Ron Van Drimmelen, whose ex-wife was part of the cult, decided to confront the atrocities within “The Company.” He hired an investigator to infiltrate the group, collecting video and photographic evidence of the abuse. In 1991, the police raided seven homes of cult members, leading to the arrest of eleven individuals for the use of pornographic materials for instructional purposes and sexual exploitation of a child. A week later, Shreeve himself was arrested.
Legal Reckoning
Nine children were placed in protective custody, as their mothers were deemed unfit to care for them. Eight cult members pleaded guilty to various charges. Facing two counts of sodomy on a child and two counts of sexual abuse of a child, Shreeve opted for a guilty plea to spare the children from testifying. He was sentenced to 20 years in prison and passed away in 2009.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the unsettling saga of Arvin Shreeve and “The Company” serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers inherent in charismatic leaders and their cults. Shreeve’s excommunication from the LDS Church marked the inception of a disturbing journey culminating in the formation of a cult with distressing beliefs, profoundly affecting the lives of its members.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is Arvin Shreeve? Arvin Shreeve, a landscaper from Weber County, gained notoriety for founding the controversial cult known as “The Company” in 1991.
What was “The Company” cult about? “The Company” was a cult initiated by Arvin Shreeve, attracting excommunicated LDS members. The group endorsed unsettling beliefs, including the mandatory requirement for female members to engage in same-sex relationships to demonstrate their spirituality.
Why was Arvin Shreeve excommunicated from the LDS Church? Shreeve faced excommunication due to advocating practices inconsistent with the teachings of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.