Templo Filadelfia: Prosecutors seek up to 24 years in prison for 27 accused of illicit association, labor trafficking, and reducing to servitude

Argentine prosecutors are seeking severe prison sentences for 27 individuals accused of operating an international organization that allegedly exploited vulnerable people for labor and servitude for nearly 50 years under the guise of the "Templo Filadelfia" religious congregation. The requested sentences range from 3 years and 9 months to a maximum of 24 years.

During the trial before Federal Oral Criminal Court No. 2 of San Martín, the prosecution argued that the case involves "organized criminality, violence against women, and forms of violence against children and adolescents." They emphasized the need to consider the victims' vulnerability and existing power imbalances when evaluating evidence.

The organization, with its central headquarters in San Justo, Buenos Aires province, and branches in Paraguay and Brazil, allegedly operated from 1972 until December 1, 2020. At least 25 victims in vulnerable situations are believed to have been affected. All 27 defendants are accused of illicit association, while 25 face charges of servitude and human trafficking for aggravated labor exploitation.

The main defendant, 82-year-old Eva Petrona Pereyra, faces the longest sentence request of 24 years. She is also accused of sexual abuse against four victims, two of whom were minors at the time of the offenses. The prosecution also requested the confiscation of 48 properties and 16 vehicles allegedly used in or acquired through the criminal activities.