A California Catholic priest has been arrested and charged with child sex abuse. The alleged abuse reportedly occurred in the 1990s and involved three male victims from the same family. The victims reported the abuse last year, leading to the priest's arrest. The priest was listed in the 2023 Archdiocese of Los Angeles directory and was recently on the Loyola High School board, but his listings have been removed.
7 days ago
Father Theodore Gabrielli has been arrested in California on charges of aggravated sexual assault of a minor 1 2. The arrest occurred on June 12 in Los Osos 1 2. The charges relate to alleged incidents dating back to the 1990s 1 2.
The San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office has identified three alleged male victims 1 2. All three victims are reportedly members of the same family 1 2. The alleged abuse occurred between 1991 and 1999 1 2. The family was living in Mexico and befriended Gabrielli 1 2. Gabrielli allegedly took the boys to various locations in California, including his parents' residence, where the assaults occurred 1 2. The victims came forward last year to report the abuse 1 2.
Following the arrest, Father Gabrielli's name has been removed from several directories 1 2. This includes the Loyola High School Los Angeles board of directors and the staff directory of Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in San Diego 1 2. He was previously listed as residing at the Dolores Mission in the 2023 Archdiocese of Los Angeles directory 1 2. The Archdiocese of Los Angeles has not yet responded to requests for comment 1 2.
The Church addresses clergy sexual abuse and accountability.
The Catholic Church has taken various measures to address clergy sexual abuse and ensure accountability . These actions include implementing policies, offering support to victims, and emphasizing the responsibility of Church leaders .
The Church acknowledges the deep shame caused by the sexual abuse of minors and the betrayal of trust by clergy members . It recognizes the profound pain and suffering experienced by victims and the need for healing and reconciliation .
Pope Francis has outlined three principles as part of a spirituality of reparation:
The Church is committed to addressing the issue of clergy sexual abuse with clarity and determination . The measures and principles outlined reflect an ongoing effort to protect children, support victims, and ensure accountability within the Church .