"When he was arrested last Friday, it was at the San Diego International Airport, and he was on his way to Germany. Given his access to funds, the fact that he had over $9,000 in the bag when he was stopped, and the fact that he has these international ties, we're close to Mexico - I do believe that some bail to ensure he shows up is appropriate."
"That money effectively vanished, and the money was going to the bishop, via the secretary. There is no accounting of that money. The bishop indicated that was given to the needy."
"I have never - in my episcopal life - have I used any penny of the church money. On the contrary: I have done my best to preserve and manage the donations."
Emanuel Shaleta, bishop of Saint Peter's Chaldean Church in East County, San Diego, faces 15 felony charges including eight counts of embezzlement, eight counts of money laundering, and one count of aggravated white-collar crime. He allegedly stole at least $270,000 from church funds, claiming he distributed the money to those in need. Authorities discovered he frequently traveled to a brothel in Tijuana. Shaleta was arrested at San Diego International Airport carrying over $9,000 in cash while attempting to travel to Germany. Prosecutors argue he poses a flight risk due to his access to funds and international connections. Over $427,000 remains unaccounted for, with estimates suggesting the total could reach $1 million. Shaleta maintains his innocence, denying any misuse of church money.
Read at California Post
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]