Joel Madero

Emanuel Shaleta, the Chaldean Catholic bishop of the San Diego area, California, has resigned from his position following accusations of embezzling $270,000 from his parish, St. Peter Chaldean Catholic Cathedral. Pope Leo XIV accepted his resignation, a decision announced by the Vatican. Shaleta, 69, pleaded not guilty to 17 felony charges, including money laundering, during a recent hearing. The charges stem from allegations that he misappropriated funds from the cathedral. The case has garnered significant attention, particularly within the Chaldean Catholic community, and raises questions about financial oversight within religious institutions. The resignation and legal proceedings are the latest developments in this ongoing situation.