This archive report was first published on 24 July 2019.
On June 17, a car crash in California led to an unexpected discovery: a priest with a fractured hip and bags of cash he allegedly stole from the local parish.
According to the Diocese of Santa Rosa, Father Oscar Diaz, a 56-year-old priest with 25 years of experience, had been stealing from parishes where he served over the past 15 years.
Investigations revealed that Diaz had stolen over $95,000 from the parishes, with $18,000 found in his car at the time of the accident.
"I am deeply grieved that this has happened and am deeply saddened that the parishes he was sent to serve have been harmed," said Bishop Robert Vasa in a statement.
The Diocese is committed to determining the full extent of the theft, which may never be fully known.
It was a hospital employee who contacted police after Diaz brought a large amount of cash into the emergency room, leading to the discovery of the theft.
Further investigations revealed that Diaz had deposited checks made out to parishes into his personal bank account and had a large number of collection bags containing cash in his office and rectory.
"Father Oscar is presently suspended from priestly ministry," said Bishop Vasa. "There are no plans at this time for ministry in the Church and his future is uncertain."
The Diocese has decided not to pursue criminal prosecution at this time, citing the cost involved.
