Brother Tony's boys
Book Description
This powerful true crime investigation exposes the devastating betrayal of trust within religious communities when spiritual authority becomes a weapon of exploitation. Mike Echols presents the disturbing account of Mario Ivan "Tony" Leyva, a charismatic Pentecostal evangelist who spent over twenty-five years captivating millions with his passionate sermons while secretly preying upon the children of his devoted followers.
Through careful research and extensive interviews with survivors, their families, and community members, Echols reveals how Leyva manipulated his position as a respected prophet to systematically abuse nearly a thousand young boys across twenty-three states. The book examines the complex dynamics that allowed these crimes to continue undetected for decades, exploring how religious devotion and trust can be weaponized by those who exploit sacred relationships.
This meticulously documented account serves as both a sobering reminder of the importance of protecting vulnerable members within faith communities and a testament to the courage of survivors who came forward. Echols addresses critical questions about institutional accountability, parental awareness, and the mechanisms that enable predators to operate within religious settings.
For readers seeking to understand the intersection of faith, power, and abuse, this investigation offers essential insights into recognizing and preventing such exploitation while honoring the experiences of those who suffered in silence.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages) (~10 hours)
📄 Length: 374 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore Pentecostal churches
- ✓ Explore Biography
- ✓ Explore Leyva, Tony,
- ✓ Explore Evangelists
- ✓ Explore Child sexual abuse by clergy
- ✓ Explore Child prostitution
- ✓ Explore Leyva, Tony, 1946-
- ✓ Explore Clergy
