"Mexican Megachurch Leaders Exposed in Shocking Sex-Trafficking Scheme"

US Prosecutors Uncover Alleged Sex-Trafficking Ring Led by Mexican Megachurch Leaders In a shocking indictment, US prosecutors have accused the leaders of La Luz del Mundo Church, a Mexican megachurch with over 5 million members worldwide, of operating a large-scale sex trafficking enterprise for decades. The church's patriarchs allegedly facilitated the sexual abuse of children and women, passing down their leadership roles while also perpetuating a culture of exploitation. According to court documents, six defendants, including the current leader Naasón Joaquín García, are charged with participating in a sprawling conspiracy that spanned multiple countries. The indictment alleges that the church's leaders used their positions of power to exploit and abuse vulnerable individuals, often under the guise of spiritual guidance. La Luz del Mundo Church has been a family affair since its inception nearly 100 years ago, with Eusebio Aaron Joaquín Gonzalez founding the Guadalajara-based Christian church. His son succeeded him as leader, followed by his grandson Naasón Joaquín García, who is now facing charges alongside five other defendants. The indictment paints a picture of a culture within the church that enabled and facilitated sex trafficking. According to prosecutors, the church's leaders used their influence to silence victims and cover up abuse, often using threats and intimidation to maintain control. Experts say that the allegations against La Luz del Mundo Church are not surprising given the church's history of secrecy and authoritarian leadership. "This is a classic case of a cult-like organization where the leader has absolute power and control over his followers," said Dr. Janja Lalich, an expert on cults and authoritarian groups. The indictment alleges that the sex trafficking ring operated for decades, with victims being recruited from within the church's ranks as well as from outside communities. The abuse is said to have been facilitated by the church's leaders, who used their positions of power to exploit and manipulate vulnerable individuals. La Luz del Mundo Church has denied any wrongdoing, releasing a statement saying that the allegations are "baseless" and "without merit." However, experts say that the indictment raises serious questions about the church's leadership and culture. The case is now set for trial, with prosecutors seeking to hold the defendants accountable for their alleged crimes. As the investigation continues, victims and advocates are calling for greater transparency and accountability within the church. In a statement, US Attorney Nicola T. Hanna said, "Today's indictment makes clear that we will not tolerate the exploitation of vulnerable individuals by those in positions of power." The case serves as a stark reminder of the need for greater oversight and regulation of religious organizations, particularly those with a history of secrecy and authoritarian leadership. The trial is expected to shed more light on the allegations against La Luz del Mundo Church and its leaders. As the investigation continues, one thing is clear: the alleged sex-trafficking ring at the heart of this megachurch has left a trail of devastation in its wake, with victims still seeking justice and accountability. This story was compiled from reports by The Guardian and The Guardian.