Testimony in favor: Teenager defends Pastor Ángel Gabriel Capellán after allegations in Haina
Amidst the judicial process facing Pastor Ángel Gabriel Capellán, leader of the Restaurando Vida Foundation, known as “A Dead Man Who Revives,” a voice has emerged in defense of the accused. A 17-year-old teenager, who was part of the institution since he was 13, flatly denied the allegations of abuse that have shocked the community of Haina, in San Cristóbal.
The young man stated that, during his four years at the center, he always received dignified treatment and adequate food, contradicting the accusations weighing on the religious figure. His testimony aligns with that of other members of the congregation and neighbors in the area, who maintain that the foundation has played a positive role by providing shelter and support to people in vulnerable situations.
Context of the Public Ministry’s investigation
These statements gain relevance as the Public Prosecutor’s Office advances in a deep investigation following the rescue of 13 minors from the facilities. The authorities base their accusations on reports of physical and psychological abuse and the alleged subjection to forced labor, charges that contrast directly with the version offered by the teenager.
The case is at a crucial stage, where authorities are seeking to clarify the conditions in which the rescued minors were living, while the defense and those close to the pastor insist on the social work of the entity.
Next legal steps
The Public Ministry has formalized a request for coercive measures against Pastor Capellán and another defendant linked to the case. The hearing to determine the precautionary measures has been scheduled for this Thursday, September 3, at the San Cristóbal courts.
The community remains expectant regarding the development of this judicial process, which brings into debate the management of the foundation and the alleged irregularities reported by the authorities versus the testimonies of those who claim to have been benefited by the pastor’s work.
