Cicero Megachurch Pastor Charged in Alleged Child Sex Trafficking Operation Connection

A pastor from a megachurch in Cicero, Illinois, faces federal charges related to an alleged child sex trafficking operation. The church, known as Light of the World Church and by its Spanish name, La Luz Del Mundo, was closed following the arrest of Pastor Joram Núñez Joaquin. The arrest occurred during a 5 a.m. service, and Núñez Joaquin has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Federal prosecutors allege that Núñez Joaquin, from the church’s Cicero branch, falsely posed as an attorney and attempted to coerce victims in California into not reporting alleged incidents. His attorney has argued for his release, emphasizing that Núñez Joaquin is a 37-year-old married father of three, not charged with any acts of violence or sex abuse. The attorney described the arrest as unconscionable, highlighting Núñez Joaquin’s faith and confidence in justice.

In related developments, Naasón Joaquín García, an alleged relative of Núñez Joaquin, was also taken into federal custody. A newly unsealed indictment from New York alleges that García and co-defendants exploited the church for decades, facilitating systemic sexual abuse of children and women for the sexual gratification of García and his late father. García had previously pleaded guilty to two state counts in 2022, resulting in a sentence exceeding 16 years.

In court, federal prosecutors argued that Núñez Joaquin is a flight risk due to the church’s connections to Guadalajara, Mexico. Consequently, a federal judge ordered him to remain in custody and be transferred to the Southern District of New York. This case underscores the importance of accountability and justice, reflecting the biblical call to uphold truth and care for victims, as seen in Micah 6:8 and Proverbs 31:8-9.

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