Gender: Male

Perpetrator: Nicaragua

Religion or Belief: Christian – Protestant

Sentence: 12 Years' Imprisonment

Date of Detainment: December//2023

Date of Sentencing: March/19/2024

Date of Release: September/5/2024

Current Status: Released

Religious Leader: Yes

Most Recent Type of Abuse: Imprisonment

Reason for Persecution: Religious Association Religious Figure & Religious Leadership Role

Nature of Charges: Embezzlement & Fraud

Orvin Alexis Moncada Castellano

Extra Bio Info:

Orvin Alexis Moncada Castellano was imprisoned for his religious affiliation and religious leadership role.

In December 2023, Nicaraguan police arrested Castellano, a pastor with the Puerta de la Montaña Ministry, on dubious "money laundering charges" amid a crackdown on religious communities. 

On March 19, 2024, the Fifth District Criminal Court sentenced Castellano to 12 years in prison. Castellano was also fined $80 million.

On September 5, 2024, the Nicaraguan government exiled Castellano to Guatemala.

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Sources:
  • Photo attributed to ADF International and Mountain Gateway Order, Inc.