The Janet Moses Exorcism

On October 12, 2007, Janet Moses, a 22-year-old New Zealand woman, died during an exorcism conducted by her family. Approximately 40 family members participated in an attempt to remove what they believed was a makutu (Māori curse) from Janet. The tragic death illustrates the dangers of possession beliefs when combined with amateur exorcism attempts.

Background

Janet Moses lived with her extended family in Wainuiomata, near Wellington, New Zealand. In the days before her death, Janet had exhibited unusual behavior that family members interpreted as possession by a malevolent spirit or the result of a curse.

Family members believed she was under a makutu—a Māori spiritual curse. In Māori tradition, makutu can be removed through spiritual intervention, but this typically involves trained practitioners, not improvised family rituals.

The Exorcism

Approximately 40 family members gathered at the home to conduct a lifting ceremony. Over the course of the evening, they attempted to drive out the spirit by holding Janet down, pouring water over her face, and pressing on her body.

The procedure continued for hours despite Janet’s obvious distress. She drowned in the water being poured over her face while being held down by family members.

Aftermath

Several family members were charged in connection with Janet’s death. Five were convicted of manslaughter. The case highlighted the clash between traditional beliefs and legal responsibility, and the tragic consequences when sincere but misguided attempts to help result in death.

The verdict acknowledged that the family members genuinely believed they were saving Janet from spiritual harm, but that their methods were nonetheless criminally negligent.

Cultural Context

The case sparked discussion in New Zealand about traditional beliefs, mental health, and when spiritual intervention becomes dangerous. Some Māori leaders emphasized that traditional practices for addressing makutu do not involve violence and that the family’s approach was a distortion of cultural tradition.

Assessment

The Janet Moses case represents the tragic intersection of genuine belief in possession and the deadly consequences of amateur exorcism. Her family loved her and believed they were saving her from spiritual torment. Instead, they killed her.

The case stands as a warning about the dangers of possession beliefs when they lead to physical intervention by untrained family members desperate to help someone they love.