New York federal judge Loretta Preska denied a $5 million bail proposal for Eva García de Joaquín, the 80‑year‑old mother of La Luz del Mundo leader Naasón Joaquín, keeping her detained on organized‑crime and sex‑trafficking charges.
Background of the arrest
Eva García was taken into custody on 10 September at her California residence after a multi‑year investigation implicated her, her son and other church members in a scheme that allegedly abused girls and siphoned donations from followers.
Her defense sought release from the Essex County jail in New Jersey under electronic monitoring, offering a $5 million bond backed by assets of eight relatives.
The attorneys argued García requires specialized medical care for an Alzheimer’s diagnosis made in 2023, citing a photo taken by a federal agent that showed her in a wheelchair just days before her arrest.
The same image displayed her luxury travel accessories, including a Louis Vuitton bag valued at over $7 000.
Legal arguments and court decision
Prosecutors warned that García could evade accountability, noting the charges carry a maximum penalty of two consecutive life sentences. They also emphasized that the prison system can accommodate inmates with health issues, as stated by prosecutor Jay Clayton.
Judge Preska agreed with the government and ordered that García remain in custody at the Essex County detention facility.
The hearing also included her son Naasón Joaquín and nephew Joram Núñez, who are currently housed in a Brooklyn correctional center. Their next court appearance is set for 12 March 2026.
Evidence seized
During a search of García’s Los Angeles home, agents from HSI uncovered a hidden safe containing more than $200,000 in cash, gold coins, jewelry and a jade‑wrapped USB drive. Combined with a search of her son’s nearby property, investigators seized over $1 million in cash.
Defense counsel maintains that no physical or digital proof links García directly to the alleged sexual abuse, describing the case as dependent on a handful of decades‑old witness testimonies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges does Eva García face?
She is charged with organized‑crime and sex‑trafficking offenses stemming from alleged participation in a scheme that abused minors and misappropriated donor funds.
Why was the bail request denied?
Judge Preska found the prosecution’s arguments persuasive, noting the seriousness of the charges, the potential risk of flight, and that the prison can accommodate her medical needs.
What assets were discovered during the investigation?
Authorities recovered more than $200,000 in cash, gold coins, jewelry and a jade‑wrapped USB drive from García’s home, and seized over $1 million in total cash from related properties.
How do you think this case might influence future scrutiny of religious groups involved in similar allegations?