Serious Charges and Archdiocese Response
Arriaga faces five serious charges related to the abuse of a child, with one identified victim so far. However, law enforcement officials have stated that they suspect there may be other victims, and detectives from the Special Victims Unit are urging anyone with information to come forward.
The alleged abuse incidents reportedly occurred on February 8 and 9, with charges including assault with intent to commit a sexual act on a minor. According to court documents, these events were among those leading to Arriaga’s arrest.
In response to the allegations, the Archdiocese of Los Angeles removed Father Arriaga from his position at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Downey. The Archdiocese has expressed its commitment to child protection, emphasizing a long-standing history of reporting abuse and taking preventative measures. "The archdiocese has a long history of commitment to protecting children and reporting and preventing abuse," the statement said.
Zero-Tolerance Policy and Churchgoer Notifications
The Archdiocese also reiterated its "zero-tolerance policy," which ensures that anyone found to have harmed a minor is immediately removed from their position permanently. Arriaga’s removal from ministry aligns with this policy, with the church formally notifying parishioners during weekend masses. A statement was read at both Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church and other church locations, informing the congregation that Arriaga had been "removed from ministry as a result of a recent report of alleged sexual misconduct involving a minor."
This incident has brought renewed attention to the ongoing efforts within the Catholic Church to address allegations of sexual misconduct, with many advocating for stronger protections for vulnerable individuals within the community.
The case remains under investigation, and authorities continue to encourage anyone with further information to come forward.
(This story is published from a syndicated feed)