Some may remember this story from last year, which caused quite a stir. Now, an update, via The Catholic Register:
All charges against a Canadian priest have been dropped in an American court.
On July 30, Will County State Attorney’s office dropped a charge of misdemeanor battery against Fr. Carlos Martin, a member of the Ottawa-based Companions of the Cross.
“The State has confirmed that Fr. Martins has never been charged with a crime, accused of a crime, accused of any allegations of impropriety with minors, nor subject to any form of canonical discipline as a priest,” the court order stated, before saying “this matter is dismissed.”
“I am deeply grateful to all who offered their prayers and support during this time,” said Martins in a public statement. “I am thankful for the truth coming to light and look forward to resuming my ministry and continuing to preach the Gospel.”
The charge stems from Nov. 21, 2024 during a nationwide tour of the relic of St. Jude Martins hosted at a Catholic school in Joliet, Ill., near Chicago. A girl claims Martins took a strand of hair from her and began flossing with it during his presentation. Her father later filed a complaint with police.
Following the allegation, Martins voluntarily withdrew from his pastoral ministry. The Companions’ Fr. Roger Vandenakker told Stella Maris Media that the order has “waited patiently for the court to make its determination” and seeing as it only learned of the ruling through Stella Maris’ inquiry, it is seeking patience “as we discern how to move forward concerning Fr. Carlos’ ministry.”
