A jury found Eligio Bishop guilty on multiple charges, including rape, false imprisonment, and charges related to revenge porn. Bishop, who also goes by “Natureboy” and “3God,” is the leader of Carbon Nation, which authorities characterize as a sex cult. Prosecutors allege he raped a former group member who tried to escape and then posted revenge porn online.
Authorities arrested the 40-year-old alleged cult leader in April 2022. After a lengthy trial, a grand jury indicted him on five charges, including rape in July 2022. The prosecution gave an inside look into the operations of Carbon Nation. It also revealed how Bishop and his followers used social media to promote their holistic lifestyle and teachings.
What Former Carbon Nation Cult Members Said at the Sentencing
Several of Bishop’s former cult members spoke during his sentencing hearing, held after the judge read the verdict. The cult members, through tears, described how his actions impacted each of them. “He said my soul belonged to him, and there was absolutely no saying no to him,” one woman testified.
Another woman testified during the hearing, saying, “You were our guy, but now you’re a prisoner like you imprisoned us.” During their statements, Eligio Bishop appeared in a room at the DeKalb County jail, “cutting it up,” according to DeKalb County Superior Court Judge Stacey Hydrick. The alleged cult leader was also talking to the bailiff.
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Bishop’s Statement Before His Sentencing
Before the court sentenced him, Eligio Bishop addressed the judge. “I just want to say something to all of them,” Bishop said. “Well, direct it to me, please,” Judge Hydrick interrupted. “Are you happy?” the alleged cult leader asked.
“I’m not answering any questions of yours,” the judge interjected. “I forgive, I forgive you,” Bishop said, talking over the judge. “And I still love you.” Bishop continued to appear to address the victims and his supporters, adding, “Kiss my girl for me.” “Alright, I just muted the courtroom; we’re done with that,” the judge said after his brief remarks.
Eligio Bishop Sentenced for Rape and Other Charges
During the hearing, prosecutors asked for the maximum sentence. However, the defense argued that he should get life with parole based on his lousy childhood and his lack of priors. “I would have been inclined to exercise some discretion if Mr. Bishop showed any remorse, guilt, or regret throughout this process,” Judge Hydrick said.
“Also, I saw nothing during the trial but him laughing, cutting it up, and looking shocked and surprised at all of the testimony.” The Judge continued, “Mr. Bishop, you are a master manipulator and probably the classic definition of a narcissist that I have ever seen.”
The Judge Ruled Against Eligio Bishop
Before the sentencing, the judge scolded Eligio Bishop. Hydrick claimed he took advantage of “lost souls looking for some guidance or comfort” and filling a void. She said he caused potentially irreparable harm. Furthermore, the Judge said she hoped the victims would find peace, beginning with this sentence.
Despite Bishop’s tactics and manipulations, Judge Hydrick was not swayed. She sentenced him to life without parole. In addition, she ordered that he not have any contact with the victims, either direct or indirect, including posting anything on the internet.
Hydrick also told Bishop he could not profit from his crimes through a book deal or other means. While Hydrick’s ruling stands, the defense has 30 days to file a motion for a new trial.
Carbon Nation Supporter’s Reaction to Court Verdict
Many of Bishop’s supporters were not in the courtroom for the verdict. However, they took issue with the judge’s words and called the case one-sided. “This is a setup,” said Kayle Buckner. “These women are scornful; they are spiteful because they couldn’t have Mr. Bishop to themselves.” Also, the cult leader’s supporters say he will appeal the conviction.
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According to reports, only one defense witness spoke during the hearing. Authorities barred them from the courtroom for saying inappropriate things on the stand or causing outbursts while sitting in the gallery.
After over a year of lengthy trials, the sentencing brings a measure of closure to the victims. In her ruling, Judge Hydrick also expressed hope that they find peace, beginning with the inflicted sentence.
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