Priest Arrested in Cordoba Accused of Abuse

The 60-year-old priest, identified as Jorge “N,” was arrested in Cordoba, Veracruz, by Ministerial Police agents. The operation took place on 39th Avenue, near his residence in the Los Arcos de Cordoba neighborhood. This arrest followed an active warrant issued by a criminal control judge in Atotonilco el Grande, Hidalgo, within case number 02/2020, which originated from case number 04-2018-610. The priest is accused of aggravated sexual abuse against two minors.

The investigation, initiated in Hidalgo, alleges that the abuse occurred in 2018 in Xajhá, within the municipality of Zimapán. The victims, referred to by initials A.T.S. and M.A.G.S., reported the incidents took place within religious facilities and community spaces where the priest had direct access. The priest, originally from Durango, had been absent from the region for several years prior to his arrest.

Following the allegations, the local diocese removed the priest from his duties and he left the state, relocating to Cordoba where he maintained a low profile. He continued to engage in private activities without formal ties to Veracruz parishes. The arrest warrant remained active since 2020, but his location was not confirmed until Hidalgo authorities sought assistance from Veracruz to locate him.

The arrest was conducted without resistance, and the priest was immediately transferred to the regional prosecutor’s office for certification and subsequent judicial processing. The criminal proceedings are in their initial stage, and the accused retains the presumption of innocence until a judge determines his legal status.

Residents of Los Arcos in Cordoba confirmed that the priest lived and carried out daily activities without drawing attention. No local authority had received recent complaints against him. The prosecutor from Hidalgo is responsible for presenting the evidence to the supervisory judge during an indictment hearing, where the connection to the proceedings and applicable precautionary measures will be determined.

This case underscores the importance of accountability and justice, reflecting the biblical call to pursue righteousness and protect the vulnerable. As Proverbs 31:8-9 reminds us, we are to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves and defend the rights of the poor and needy.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Spanish)