Chapter 1: Origins of a Cult

In the late 1970s, a seemingly innocent group known as the Ant Hill Kids emerged, led by Roch Thériault, who believed he was a prophet named Moïse. Born into a French-Canadian family in Quebec, Thériault was a bright young man who delved into religious texts early on. He became convinced that a cosmic battle between good and evil was imminent, leading him to transition from Catholicism to the Seventh-day Adventist Church just before founding his notorious cult.

As Thériault gathered followers through shared religious beliefs, he relocated the group to Sainte-Marie, Quebec, in 1977, promising them a community free from sin and filled with like-minded individuals. However, he quickly isolated them from their families and the outside world, asserting that such connections were contrary to the cult's ideals of freedom.

Thériault's initial motivational talks gave way to heavy drinking and increased control over his followers' lives. Soon, members were forbidden from interacting with each other without his presence or engaging in sexual relations without his consent.

Section 1.1: Descent into Abuse

As Thériault's substance abuse escalated, so did the severity of his punitive measures. If he suspected a member of contemplating escape, he would resort to physical violence, using a belt or hammer, suspending individuals from ceilings, or resorting to degrading forms of punishment.

His erratic behavior reached new lows, as he coerced members into self-harm, forcing them to inflict severe injuries on one another to demonstrate loyalty. Tragically, children were not spared from the cruel treatment; Thériault subjected them to horrific acts of violence, including sexual abuse and physical torture.

Subsection 1.1.1: The Purification Rituals

Over time, Thériault attempted to revert the cult back to his original vision by