David Koresh

Koresh developed a doctrine under which he could take multiple "spiritual wives" within the group, while other men were required to become celibate, including in cases involving women already married to other members.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Directly implicated

Research on the Branch Davidians concludes that Koresh had sexual relationships with several underage girls as part of his "spiritual marriages" and sought to father numerous children.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Directly implicated

The ATF investigated Koresh and the Davidians for the illegal manufacture or possession of machine guns and destructive devices following extensive purchases of firearms, parts, ammunition and materials capable of conversion.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Directly implicated

According to the ATF chronology, Koresh told a social worker that what would happen when his time came would make the Los Angeles riots seem insignificant; former members also warned investigators of a possible mass suicide.

State of the evidence

Documented

During the execution of warrants at Mount Carmel, a shootout broke out between ATF agents and Branch Davidians. Four agents were killed and numerous agents and Davidians were injured.

State of the evidence

Documented

Koresh agreed to a plan under which his message would be broadcast and all occupants would then leave; after the broadcast, he stated that God had commanded him to wait and the surrender did not take place.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Directly implicated

Twenty-one children were released early in the siege, but no further children left after 3 March despite repeated requests from negotiators. Koresh notably stated that his own children were "different".

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Directly implicated

The official fire investigation concluded that multiple fires had been deliberately started inside, with accelerants used. The compound was destroyed and Koresh was found dead from a gunshot wound; dozens of adults and children died.

State of the evidence

Documented

Texas child protection services investigated reports concerning Koresh and visited Mount Carmel. The interviews conducted did not establish the alleged physical abuse.

Attribution

Directly implicated

Koresh returned to Mount Carmel armed and accompanied by seven supporters amid a power struggle with George Roden. A shootout broke out and Roden was injured.

Attribution

Directly implicated

Course of the proceedings

1. Formally charged — Formal charge before the current outcome

Vernon Howell, later known as David Koresh, married Rachel Jones when she was 14 and he was approximately 24.

State of the evidence

Well documented

Attribution

Directly implicated