A US businessman is facing serious criminal charges in Brazil after his teenage son was discovered severely malnourished and allegedly subjected to a dangerous 'detox' programme at a controversial spiritual retreat.
The 15-year-old boy was found by Brazilian authorities in a worrying physical state at the retreat in the picturesque coastal town of Paraty, Rio de Janeiro. According to officials, the teenager had been forced to undergo an extreme regimen involving herbal treatments, strict isolation, and deprivation of proper nutrition.
Alarming Discovery Leads to Criminal Investigation
Brazilian police were alerted to the situation after concerns were raised about the boy's welfare. Upon investigation, they discovered the American teenager in what they described as a "precarious state of health," showing signs of significant weight loss and malnutrition.
The boy's father, identified as a 50-year-old American executive, has been charged with child endangerment and ill-treatment. Brazilian authorities allege he knowingly placed his son in dangerous conditions under the guise of alternative therapy.
Controversial Retreat Methods Under Scrutiny
The spiritual retreat, which has not been officially named, reportedly promotes unorthodox healing methods including:
- Forced consumption of herbal concoctions
- Extended periods of isolation from outside contact
- Severe dietary restrictions leading to malnutrition
- Alleged psychological manipulation techniques
Local health authorities have condemned the practices, stating they represent a serious risk to participants' wellbeing and violate Brazilian health regulations.
International Legal Complications
The case has developed complex international dimensions, with both Brazilian and American authorities now involved. The teenager has been placed under protective care while investigations continue.
This incident has sparked wider concerns about the regulation of alternative treatment centres in Brazil and the vulnerability of foreign nationals seeking unconventional therapies abroad.
Brazilian police continue their investigation into both the retreat operators and the father's involvement in subjecting his son to the controversial programme.
