A Brooklyn priest’s approval of a controversial music video leads to his removal and uncovers a web of financial mismanagement involving millions of dollars and city officials.
At a Glance
- Monsignor Jamie Gigantiello removed from Brooklyn church after financial investigation
- Investigation triggered by Sabrina Carpenter’s provocative music video filmed in church
- Unauthorized transfers of $1.9 million linked to former aide of NYC Mayor Eric Adams
- Diocese cooperating with federal investigators amid subpoenas for financial records
- Bishop Robert Brennan appoints new administrator to safeguard church funds
Controversial Video Sparks Deeper Investigation
The Roman Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn has removed Monsignor Jamie Gigantiello from his duties at a local church following a financial investigation that began with a controversial music video shoot. Pop star Sabrina Carpenter’s provocative video, filmed at the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church, raised eyebrows and prompted a closer look at the church’s operations.
What started as a questionable decision to allow filming on church grounds quickly evolved into a full-scale financial probe. The investigation uncovered a pattern of serious violations of diocesan policies, including unauthorized financial transactions and misuse of church funds.
Financial Mismanagement Uncovered
The scope of the financial misconduct is staggering. Investigators found that Gigantiello had mishandled nearly $2 million in parish funds. Most alarmingly, $1.9 million was transferred to accounts linked to Frank Carone, a former chief of staff to New York City Mayor Eric Adams. This connection has drawn the attention of federal investigators, who have now subpoenaed the church for information on these financial dealings.
The investigation revealed that these financial transactions were not properly documented or approved by diocesan officials. In response to the findings, Carone’s law firm has repaid $1 million with interest, while Gigantiello sought early repayment of the remainder.
Consequences and Cooperation
The fallout from this scandal has been swift and severe. Gigantiello has been stripped of his administrative and fundraising duties, though he may still say Mass with approval. Additionally, a deacon was relieved of duties for using offensive language, which was recorded at Gigantiello’s direction.
Bishop Robert Brennan has emphasized the diocese’s commitment to cooperating with legal procedures. The diocese is fully cooperating with law enforcement investigations, demonstrating a commitment to transparency and accountability in the wake of this scandal.
A Moment of Levity Amid Serious Allegations
While the situation remains grave, pop star Sabrina Carpenter, whose music video inadvertently sparked the investigation, has referenced the controversy with a touch of humor during a recent concert.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the need for stringent financial oversight within religious institutions and the potential consequences of lapses in judgment. As the investigation continues, the Brooklyn diocese faces the challenge of rebuilding trust and implementing stronger safeguards to prevent future mismanagement of church funds.
Sources:
NYC Priest Stripped of Duties for Allowing Sabrina Carpenter to Shoot Music Video in Church
How a Sabrina Carpenter song led to a priest’s demotion for mishandling church funds
NYC priest who allowed Sabrina Carpenter to shoot a music video in church further stripped of duties
