Hospital Chief Charged with Coercing Staff into Pyramid Scheme

Mario Fernández Candia, an administrative official at the Regional Hospital of Villarrica, faces charges of grave coercion for allegedly exploiting his authority to pressure hospital employees into joining a pyramid scheme. The accusation, filed by the Villarrica Unitary Penal Prosecutor's Office, centers on claims that Fernández Candia leveraged his influence over staff contracts to compel participation.

Prosecutors allege that the scheme required an initial investment of 800,000 Paraguayan guaranis, with promises of substantial returns within a month. A key component of the scheme involved recruiting new members. The investigation was prompted by numerous complaints from individuals who stated they were victims of this investment plan.

One specific incident cited involves Fernández Candia allegedly pressuring an admission worker on December 20, 2024. The prosecutor's office contends that the subordinate relationship between the two was a critical factor in the alleged coercion. Reports indicate that around 66 individuals, including hospital staff and external parties, may have been affected by the scheme. Some victims reportedly received loans from Fernández Candia or his associates to make the initial investment, with the expectation of repayment from scheme earnings.