Pope Accepts Resignation of Bishop Charged in Embezzlement Case

Pope Leo XIV announced on Tuesday the acceptance of the resignation of Bishop Emanuel Shaleta, leader of a Chaldean Catholic community in the San Diego area, following the bishop's arrest on charges of embezzling funds from his parish.

Shaleta, 69, was taken into custody on March 5 at San Diego International Airport as he attempted to board a flight out of the country, according to the San Diego County Sheriff's Office. Authorities acted on information from a church member who provided documentation indicating potential embezzlement from St. Peter Chaldean Catholic Cathedral in El Cajon, east of San Diego. The bishop faces 16 felony counts, including embezzlement and money laundering, related to approximately $270,000 in missing funds. Prosecutors allege the discrepancies stem from monthly rental payments exceeding $30,000 from a tenant of the church's social hall that were not properly accounted for. Deputy District Attorney Joel Madero described Shaleta's explanations for the funds as unreasonable during a court hearing.

Shaleta pleaded not guilty to the charges during his arraignment on Monday, where he was supported by members of his congregation. A judge set bail at...