Bishop Emanuel Shaleta, 69, of the Chaldean Catholic Eparchy of St. Peter the Apostle, was dramatically arrested at San Diego International Airport as he prepared to board a flight to Rome. The arrest follows allegations that he embezzled up to $1 million from church funds and repeatedly visited a notorious Mexican brothel.
READ ALSO: USA vs Iran: “Nigerians In Our Country Are Safe And Secure” — Iranian Ambassador To Nigeria, Raja says
According to the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office, Shaleta faces eight counts of emb£zzlement, eight counts of money l@undering, and one count of aggravated white-collar cr+me. The investigation began after a church member reported suspected financial misconduct in August 2025, prompting the Vatican to launch a parallel inquiry.
Authorities allege Shaleta misappropriated at least $427,345 from parish accounts, issuing reimbursement checks to himself. In addition to financial allegations, he was reportedly seen at a Tijuana Gentleman’s Club described as a brothel where women and girls were allegedly tr@fficked. Reports claim he visited the establishment 12 times in a single month.
READ ALSO: African leaders Should Unite And Take Back The Continent From Their Colonizers — F1 Star, Lewis Hamilton
Shaleta resigned from his episcopal duties in January but has denied all wrongdoing. “I have never in my priestly life or episcopal life ab¥sed any of the Church money,” he stated during a church service on February 22, asserting that he managed church donations responsibly.
About The Author
More Stories
56-Yr-Old Lauren Reveals She is Ready to Have Another child With billionaire Husband and owner of Amazon, Jeff Bezos
Donald Trump turns 80 this year – here’s what happens if he dies in office
Saudi Crown Prince Didn’t Know He Would Be K+ssing My A+s — President Trump says, Adding That The Prince Needs To Be Nice to Him