What happened: The Diocese of Palm Beach says an investigation substantiated allegations of S3xual misconduct, abuse of power, and fraud against a Boynton Beach priest.
Background: Bishop Manuel de Jesús Rodríguez announced the findings in a letter Saturday involving the Rev. Vargas, who previously served as pastor of St.
Thomas More Parish in Boynton Beach. The diocese said it was notified June 17 of “serious allegations” involving Vargas, according to previous reports.
The matter was reported to civil authorities and law enforcement, and Renaissance Associates, Ltd., was hired to conduct an independent investigation. Because there was no credible allegation of S3xual abuse of a minor, the findings were presented to the diocese’s Adult Allegation Board for review.
The board determined there was insufficient information to substantiate an allegation of S3xual abuse. However, it found sufficient information to substantiate allegations of: S3xual misconduct; Abuse of power, authority, and/or office; Financial malfeasance; and Violations of the diocese’s Code of Conduct, including provisions involving S3xual contact, harassment, conflicts of interest, and administrative responsibilities.
The board also determined Vargas is currently unsuitable for ministry.
The available details are limited to the information verified at publication time. Readers should expect updates as the matter develops.
Any person identified in connection with an alleged offense is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
Source: official sources including CBS12 News.
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