Evangelical Pastor Ordered Pre-Trial Detention in Sexual Abuse and Harassment Case

Lici Teresita Sánchez, a criminal judge of Garantías, has ordered the pre-trial detention of an evangelical pastor accused of acts punishable against sexual autonomy. The case involves allegations of sexual abuse of defenseless persons and sexual harassment, with four young people identified as victims. The pastor, Luis Guillermo Álvarez Jaramillo, is being prosecuted for actions allegedly committed from 2023 to August of this year in both Paraguay and Colombia. The Paraguayan authorities are handling the investigation, while the Colombian government has been requested to conduct a parallel inquiry into incidents that occurred within its territory.

The victims are four young individuals who participated in the church organization known as Training and Leadership Centers (CENFOL), where Álvarez was responsible for guiding and mentoring the youth. Attorney Carlos Servín disclosed that additional young people have come forward with similar reports, which will be presented to the Prosecutor’s Office in the near future. Prosecutor Aldo Cantero has charged Álvarez with the alleged commission of sexual abuse and harassment, requesting his remand into custody.

Álvarez was apprehended at Buenos Aires International Airport in Argentina and subsequently expelled, allowing Paraguayan authorities to take jurisdiction over the case. During a hearing to determine appropriate measures, Judge Lici Sánchez, in agreement with the Prosecutor’s Office, ordered the pre-trial detention of Álvarez at the National Prevention Center (formerly Tacumbú). This decision was made to ensure his presence during the trial process.

Legal counsel Andrés Miguel Ruiz Díaz Areco had previously requested less restrictive measures, such as house arrest at the Ventura Carmelitas building in the Las Lomas neighborhood. However, the defense’s proposal included conditions such as surrendering the pastor’s passport, a ban on leaving the country, no contact with complainants or witnesses, periodic appearances, and electronic monitoring via an anklet. These conditions were deemed feasible by Paraguay’s Office of Monitoring Electronic Control Devices (OMDEC).

The case underscores the importance of accountability and justice, especially in protecting vulnerable individuals. As Proverbs 31:8-9 reminds us, we must “open our mouths for the mute, for the rights of all who are perishing.” This case calls for a commitment to upholding the dignity and safety of all, especially those in positions of trust.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Spanish)