Former Chaldean Catholic Priest Sentenced to 2 Years for Fraudulent Gambling of Refugee Funds

Father Amer Saka, a former priest in the Chaldean Catholic Church, has been sentenced to two years in prison for fraud involving nearly $1 million intended for Iraqi and Syrian refugees. The sentencing, delivered by Justice Allan Maclure, recommended that Saka serve his term in a minimum-security facility. His lawyer, Iryna Revutsky, described Saka as a fundamentally good man who made a mistake, emphasizing his struggle with a pathological gambling addiction linked to undiagnosed post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following the murders of his mother and brother in Iraq.

Saka allegedly misused funds given by parishioners to support refugee sponsorship programs at St. Joseph’s Chaldean Catholic Church in London and St. Oraha Catholic Church in Kitchener. The money was meant to assist family members of parishioners seeking entry into Canada. Over three years, between 2013 and 2016, sponsorship applications were lost or not completed, leading to the misuse of the funds. Saka’s actions affected 33 families, totaling 105 individuals.

Revutsky highlighted Saka’s progress in addressing his PTSD, noting the emotional toll of his actions and his remorse. In a letter to the court, Saka expressed regret over his behavior and fear of never practicing as a priest again. The court initially proposed 45 years of restitution, considering Saka’s limited job prospects and previous salary of $20,000 per year. However, the Crown contested this, leading to a reduced restitution term of 15 years.

The case underscores the ethical responsibilities of those entrusted with financial and spiritual care, particularly in contexts of immigration and humanitarian aid. It also highlights the complex interplay between personal struggle and professional duty. Micah 6:8 reminds us that justice, mercy, and humble service are central to righteous living.

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