US Prosecutors Uncover Alleged Sex-Trafficking Ring Led by Mexican Megachurch Leaders

Leaders of Mexican Megachurch Accused of Sex-Trafficking Enterprise A sprawling sex-trafficking operation allegedly led by the leaders of La Luz del Mundo Church has been revealed in new filings in Manhattan federal court. The Christian megachurch, founded nearly 100 years ago in Guadalajara, Mexico, boasts 5 million members worldwide and operates in all 50 US states. According to the allegations, the church's patriarchs passed down a legacy of abuse that spanned decades, targeting children and women. Eusebio Aaron Joaquín Gonzalez, the church's founder, was succeeded by his son, Samuel Joaquín Flores, upon his death in 1964. When Samuel died in 2014, his son, Naasón Joaquín García, took over as leader. The allegations detail a complex web of abuse that involved the exploitation of congregants for sex and forced labor. "This is not just about one individual; it's about an entire system of abuse that has been perpetuated by the leadership of this church," said Manhattan US Attorney Geoffrey Berman in a statement. La Luz del Mundo Church has faced criticism in the past over its authoritarian leadership style, which some have likened to a cult. The church's emphasis on obedience and loyalty to its leaders has raised concerns among experts about the potential for abuse. The allegations come as a result of an investigation by the US Department of Justice, which began in 2018 after several former congregants came forward with allegations of abuse. "We are committed to holding accountable those who have exploited and abused vulnerable individuals," said Berman. La Luz del Mundo Church has maintained its innocence throughout the investigation, releasing statements denying any wrongdoing. However, the new filings paint a disturbing picture of a church that allegedly used its influence and power to silence victims and maintain a culture of abuse. The implications of these allegations are far-reaching, raising questions about the accountability of religious institutions and their leaders. "This case highlights the need for greater transparency and oversight in the way that churches operate," said Dr. Karen King, a professor of divinity at Harvard University. As the investigation continues, La Luz del Mundo Church faces mounting pressure to address the allegations and provide support to its victims. The church's future remains uncertain as it navigates this crisis and confronts the dark secrets that have been hidden for so long. Background La Luz del Mundo Church was founded in 1926 by Eusebio Aaron Joaquín Gonzalez, who established a charismatic leadership style that emphasized obedience and loyalty to his family. The church quickly grew in popularity, spreading throughout Mexico and eventually around the world. Today, it boasts an estimated 5 million members worldwide. Additional Perspectives Experts say that the allegations against La Luz del Mundo Church are not unique, but rather part of a larger pattern of abuse within some religious institutions. "This is a wake-up call for churches to take seriously their responsibility to protect their congregants," said Dr. King. The case has also raised questions about the role of law enforcement in investigating crimes committed by religious leaders. "We need to ensure that our laws and policies are adequate to hold accountable those who abuse their power," said Berman. Current Status La Luz del Mundo Church remains under investigation, with several former congregants coming forward to share their stories of abuse. The church's leadership has maintained its innocence throughout the investigation, but faces mounting pressure to address the allegations and provide support to its victims. As the case continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the alleged sex-trafficking operation at La Luz del Mundo Church represents a shocking betrayal of trust by those who were supposed to lead and protect their congregants. *Reporting by Theguardian.*