May 20, 2025
A Brooklyn man has filed a lawsuit against Tom and Renae Cote, operators of the Christian YouTube channel Watchman River, accusing them of causing severe emotional distress through their end-times preaching. The couple, based in Berlin, Connecticut, runs a platform that interprets current events through a biblical lens, focusing on the rapture and tribulation. With over 129,000 subscribers and more than 37 million views, Watchman River has built a large following. However, plaintiff David Diver alleges the content has negatively impacted his mental and emotional well-being. In his March 2025 court filing, Diver claimed that Cote’s predictions promote obsessive thinking and anxiety, arguing that the content is misleading and potentially harmful. He further invoked Connecticut’s Unfair Trade Practices Act, suggesting the Cotes benefited financially while failing to disclose the speculative nature of their claims.
Diver is seeking $75,000 in damages, along with a court order requiring content disclaimers and a public apology. In response, the Cotes have filed a motion to dismiss under Connecticut’s Anti-SLAPP statute, which protects free speech on matters of public concern. Represented by attorney Mario Cerame, Tom Cote argues that his eschatological commentary—while strongly worded—is protected religious expression in the modern public square. Cerame likened Cote’s preaching to historical religious figures who spoke publicly about end-times themes. Cote, who says his intent is to comfort believers with biblical truth, denies selling merchandise or misleading viewers. He noted that the majority of feedback he receives reflects appreciation for his calm and hopeful tone. “I truly believe Jesus is coming soon,” he said. “And I say it with peace because I know He’s in control.” As the case awaits further review, it raises questions about the limits of religious speech online and the cultural tensions surrounding apocalyptic messages in the digital age.
Let's pray for Tom and Renae! Go check out Tom's YouTube channel and website.
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SOURCE: Inside Investigator