Brazilian psychic accused of sexual abuse, surrenders

A self-proclaimed Brazilian medium and psychic healer, who has been accused of sexual abuse by over 300 women, has turned himself over to the authorities.

Born Joao Teixeira de Faria, 76, had been on the run since an arrest warrant against him was issued on Friday, reports Xinhua news agency.

Faria surrendered to authorities on Sunday in Abadiania, some 100 km west of capital Brasilia.

A judge ordered his arrest after the suspect began to withdraw millions of dollars from his bank accounts in the wake of revelations that he took advantage of numerous women, news network O Globo said.

Faria amassed a fortune over the years by touting his supposed healing powers. He ran a clinic in Abadiania that drew famous personalities.

Prosecutors said that 330 women have brought charges against Faria, who denied any wrongdoing last week.

His alleged victims include women from the US, Italy, Switzerland, Australia and Belgium.

According to Brazilian magazine Veja, Faria owns 27 properties, as well as dozens of automobiles, a plane and a gold mine, mainly through donations.

--IANS

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