La Luz del Mundo Responds to Federal Court's Denial of Pretrial Motions

NEW YORK, Oct. 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- La Luz del Mundo respectfully disagrees with today's decision by the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York to deny the pretrial motions filed on behalf of Apostle Naasón Joaquín García, Sister Eva García de Joaquín, and Brother Joram Núñez.

The defense raised substantial legal and constitutional challenges to the prosecution's authority to pursue allegations involving conduct allegedly occurring outside its jurisdiction, the legal foundation of the charges, and the prosecution's failure to provide basic information about the allegations. We remain convinced that these challenges are well-founded. Today's ruling does nothing to change that.

Of particular concern is the prosecution's reliance on a theory of "spiritual coercion" that threatens to turn religious teachings and practices into criminal conduct. Religious faith is a matter of personal conscience and free choice, not coercion. We categorically reject any attempt to criminalize sincerely held religious beliefs and the dangerous precedent it risks setting for religious freedom in America.

Religious freedom is not a privilege granted by the government. It is a fundamental constitutional right. No religious community should have to fear that its sincerely held beliefs and practices will be distorted, criminalized, or used as a pretext for prosecution. The consequences extend far beyond our Church. The religious freedom of every American is at stake.

Today's decision allows the prosecution to move forward with its case. It does not validate the false accusations, establish guilt, or resolve the serious constitutional questions raised by the defense. We stand firmly behind Apostle Naasón Joaquín García, Sister Eva García de Joaquín, and Brother Joram Núñez, and remain resolute in our pursuit of justice.

For 100 years, La Luz del Mundo has served God, united families, strengthened communities, and promoted peace. As we commemorate our Centennial, we remain steadfast in our faith and unwavering in our defense of religious freedom.

MINISTRY OF PUBLIC RELATIONS

SOURCE La Luz del Mundo