New York archdiocese says no evidence demonstrates claims against accused priest
December 17, 2015
The Archdiocese of New York has denied receiving evidence to support charges that a pastor has stolen parish funds to pay for a drug-fueled homosexual relationship.
“The archdiocese has been investigating these allegations for many months, and has repeatedly requested any information or documentation that might substantiate the allegations that have been made,” said archdiocesan spokesman Joseph Zwilling. "Thus far, no evidence has been offered." He added that an audit by the archdiocese did not find evidence of embezzlement.
A group of lay people from St. Frances de Chantal parish have brought charges against Father Peter Miqueli, saying that he has spent more than $1 million in parish funds. The group says that they provided the archdiocese with financial records more than a year ago to demonstrate the priest’s misconduct.
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Further information:
- New York Archdiocese responds to priest embezzlement claims (CNA)
- New York parishioners charge pastor used church funds to pay homosexual companion (CWN, 2/11)
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Posted by: DCpa -
Dec. 18, 2015 12:04 PM ET USA
Well, a lawsuit has now been filed. This will compel the presentation of evidence before a trier of fact and law. Initial statements about "having no evidence" are just like pleading "not guilty." The key will be to see what happens when it is time for the evidence to come forward. Unfortunately, that takes a schedule in our legal process--and time. When the evidence does come out, it will be interesting what the archdiocese will do--but we may not see it in the media.
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Posted by: bernie4871 -
Dec. 17, 2015 8:32 PM ET USA
I believe the Parishoners, even though they have limited access to Parish accounts. Setting that aside, what is being done about the atrocious behavior with homosexual men? Afterall, you have to expect a man living that way to be a thief.
