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Leader of Hemet-based religious group accused of striking congregant with microphone
Woman testifies at hearing in double-murder case against group's leaders
Published on Feb. 7, 2026
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Kelli Byrd testified that Shelley 'Kat' Martin, the leader of the Hemet-based His Way Spirit Led Assemblies religious group, struck her with a microphone for disobeying her orders. Byrd said Martin grew increasingly controlling and violent over the 15 years she was part of the group. Martin and her husband Darryl 'Muzic' Martin are charged with two counts of murder in a separate case.
Why it matters
This case highlights the potential for abuse of power and control within religious groups, and the difficulties victims can face in speaking out against their leaders. The testimony provides insight into the alleged psychological and physical control the Martins had over their congregation.
The details
According to Byrd's testimony, in 2013 she told her 10-year-old daughter to report any repeat incidents after learning the son of a congregant had inappropriately touched a girl. Byrd said Martin then 'beat her with the microphone', causing bleeding, for disobeying her wishes. Byrd also testified that Martin claimed her husband Tim for herself and 'released' him from their marriage.
- In 2013, the alleged microphone incident occurred.
- Byrd was part of the religious group for 15 years, until she was 'kicked out' in 2015.
The players
Shelley 'Kat' Martin
The 62-year-old leader of the Hemet-based His Way Spirit Led Assemblies religious group, who is charged with two counts of murder in a separate case.
Kelli Byrd
A former member of the His Way Spirit Led Assemblies group who testified about the alleged abuse and control by the Martins.
Darryl 'Muzic' Martin
Shelley Martin's husband, who is also charged with murder in the separate case.
What they’re saying
“'(Martin is) totally flailing, coming down the aisle and speaking with the voice of the Lord: 'The audacity. THE AUDACITY,' Byrd said, quoting Martin in a loud and deep voice that jolted the San Bernardino Justice Center courtroom. 'And she beat me with the microphone,' causing bleeding.”
— Kelli Byrd, Former congregant (The Press-Enterprise)
“'You know the most. You suffer the most,' Martin screamed, according to Byrd”
— Shelley 'Kat' Martin (The Press-Enterprise)
“'She said, 'I win, you lose,' '”
— Kelli Byrd, Former congregant (The Press-Enterprise)
What’s next
The preliminary hearing is set to resume on Monday, where more evidence and testimony is expected to be presented.
The takeaway
This case highlights the potential for abuse of power and control within religious groups, and the difficulties victims can face in speaking out against their leaders. The testimony provides insight into the alleged psychological and physical control the Martins had over their congregation.
