Bishop Emanuel Shaleta of the Chaldean Catholic Diocese in San Diego has resigned and pleaded not guilty to multiple felony charges of embezzlement and money laundering. Prosecutors allege he took more than $270,000 from St. Peter Chaldean Catholic Cathedral, citing discrepancies tied to monthly rental payments exceeding $30,000 from a church property tenant. He was arrested at San Diego International Airport while attempting to leave the country and faces up to 15 years in prison if convicted.

Shaleta, 69, was born in Iraq and ordained in 1984 after theological studies in Rome. He served congregations in Illinois, Michigan, and California before being appointed bishop in Canada and later in San Diego. During a recent Mass, he denied wrongdoing, saying he had never 'abused any penny of the church money.' His preliminary hearing is scheduled for April 27.

Pope Leo Fourteenth accepted Shaleta’s resignation under the canon law governing Eastern Rite churches, though the decision was finalized in February and announced later. The Vatican said it is investigating the matter, while church leaders have called for prayers and unity as legal proceedings unfold. The Chaldean Catholic Church, one of the Eastern branches in communion with the pope, represents more than a million faithful worldwide, with a significant presence in the United States.