Judge Orders Pre-Trial Detention Without Bail for False Evangelical Pastor in L’Hospitalet Accused of Sexual Assault on Five Women, Including a Minor

A judge has ordered pre-trial detention without bail for a false evangelical pastor in L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, accused of sexually assaulting five women, one of whom was a minor. The decision followed the receipt of five complaints against him in 2025. The judicial authority issued an international arrest warrant to confirm the suspect’s absence in Spain. The accused was arrested on 23 February at El Prat airport upon arrival from Canada.

The mother of two victims stated that the defendant gained the confidence of the women to drug them and abuse them. The legal representatives of the affected families have indicated that a related possible property offence is under investigation. The case involves multiple allegations, with one complaint coming from a minor.

The judicial order for pre-trial detention was made in response to the allegations of sexual assault. The magistrate determined that the accused was not in Spain at the time of the complaints, prompting the issuance of an international arrest warrant. The suspect was apprehended upon his arrival from Canada.

A lawyer representing the affected families has confirmed that the courts have opened a separate investigation into a “presumptive property crime” and are examining whether there is any organizational connection to the suspect. The legal team is working to clarify the full scope of the alleged offenses.

The case highlights the ongoing efforts to hold individuals accountable for alleged misconduct within religious and community settings. The judicial process continues to unfold, with further developments expected as the investigation progresses. The focus remains on ensuring that all allegations are thoroughly examined within the legal framework.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Spanish)