Behind Bars: Leader of Egyptian UFO Cult Appeals for Early Release

The leader of a Black supremacist Egyptian-themed cult, Dwight “Malachi” York, is seeking early release from federal prison due to a medical condition causing body swelling. He founded the United Nuwaubian Nation of Moors in 1967 and was arrested in 2002 for alleged child molestation.

York, now 80, is serving a 135-year sentence since 2004 for transporting minors for sexual purposes and financial crimes. He claims to have hereditary angioedema, a rare condition causing severe swelling, in his petition filed on February 13.

York's attorney asserts his need for medical care beyond what the prison system provides. Putnam County Sheriff Howard Sills, involved in investigating the cult, opposes York's release, calling him a serial rapist and child molester.

York has also admitted to numerous counts of child molestation and other offenses. Former U.S. Attorney Max Wood, who prosecuted York, notes similarities between the current petition and York's past legal tactics.

If you suspect child abuse, contact the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-Child or visit ChildHelp.org. For assistance with sexual assault, call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673).