Leader convicted of sex charges; group's future up in air

EATONTON - With founder Malachi York going to prison on child molestation charges, the future of the United Nuwaubian Nation of Moors remains unclear. <br> <br> The Nuwaubians continue to live in Putnam County where York purchased a 476-acre farm a decade ago that is now adorned with pyramids, a sphinx and other Egyptian-style structures. <br> <br> Some members proclaim loudly that York is not guilty regardless of his admission. Others say they can no longer support the man or his teachings. <br> <br> The 57-year-old York pleaded guilty to a pair of federal charges January 23. A day later in state court he pleaded guilty to 77 counts of sex crimes against children. He signed a plea agreement that recommended a 15-year prison sentence and 35 years probation as an admitted sex offender. A sentencing date hasn&#39;t been scheduled. <br> <br> No decision has been made whether the property will be sold or if the Nuwaubians will remain at the compound. <br> <br> Putnam County Sheriff Howard Sills said if York still owned the property, authorities would have sought to make the forfeiture of the property part of York&#39;s federal plea agreement. <br> <br> In February 2002, York -- with the help of the Putnam County attorney -- deeded the property to nine individuals. Six of those nine later transferred their ownership of the land to the other three: Anthony Evans, Patrice Evans and Ethel Richardson. <br> <br> Evans, still a member of the church, said earlier this week 200 acres of the property has been for sale for a year. He didn&#39;t know what future the Nuwaubians have in Putnam County.