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A Connecticut priest, Father Charles E. Jacobs, has been placed on administrative leave following allegations of misappropriating parish funds for personal use. The Archdiocese of Hartford is conducting an investigation into the matter, with Father John P. Melnick appointed as the new administrator of Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Hartford by Archbishop Christopher J. Coyne.
Father Jacobs has denied the allegations in an interview with local television station WTNH, stating, "I've never taken a penny out of that (collection) basket for myself." He acknowledged setting aside small amounts to aid those in need but admitted he had not kept track of these sums. He also expressed feeling targeted by Archbishop Coyne and noted his "pet-friendly" policy at the parish may have been disapproved by the archbishop.
Father Melnick provided a contrasting account in his interview with WTNH, claiming Father Jacobs had "admitted to taking money for his personal use from the collection plate." He questioned the legitimacy of Father Jacobs' claims about helping the poor and stated that such actions should not involve personal accounts.
The case surfaced after a tip-off to the Hartford Police Department led them to contact the archdiocese. Father Melnick suggested that funds might have been siphoned off over 20 years and voiced skepticism regarding Father Jacobs' assertions of innocence.
News of these events was shared during a January 26 Mass at Holy Trinity, leading to protests from some parishioners. One young adult defended Father Jacobs during the service, asserting his belief in the priest's integrity and urging support for him.
Despite ongoing investigations and differing narratives from involved parties, support for Father Jacobs remains among certain community members. A March 1 Mass was organized at Holy Trinity to show solidarity with him.
