The leader of a dangerous and highly manipulative Queensland religious sect has been sentenced to 13 years in prison for the death of eight-year-old Elizabeth Struhs. Her parents received jail terms of over 14 years each. The sect, based in Toowoomba, does not believe in medicine and instead relies on prayer and singing for healing. They were found guilty of manslaughter following Elizabeth’s death from diabetic ketoacidosis in January 2022. The sect’s leader, Brendan Stevens, was described as a dangerous individual who manipulated others. The parents, Jason and Kerrie Struhs, prioritized their personal beliefs over their child’s life. Other members received sentences ranging from six to seven years.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/feb/26/elizabeth-struhs-trial-sentencing-the-saints-manslaughter-charges-ntwnfb