Brazilian pastor ordered to pay R$ 50,000 for linking autism to the devil

A court in Pará, Brazil, has ordered Pastor Washington Almeida of the Assembly of God church to pay R$ 50,000 in collective moral damages. The ruling follows a July 2024 sermon in which Almeida claimed that autism is caused by the devil targeting vulnerable women and families who lack spiritual protection.

During the broadcasted event, the pastor suggested that the devil “visits the wombs of the unprotected” to cause such conditions. The Public Ministry brought the action, with prosecutor Luiz Almeida Presotto stating the remarks demonstrated “insensitivity, unpreparedness, prejudice, and ignorance,” and warned that such statements perpetuate harmful stigmas.

In his defense, Almeida admitted his words were “inadequate” and expressed regret, asserting he had no intention to discriminate. His legal counsel noted that the pastor has since issued public apologies and taken courses regarding Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The fine will be directed to a public health fund dedicated to supporting patients with autism.