Don Vito Martinelli, 56, was arrested during his class at a school in Corato, Italy, and placed under house arrest on charges of sexual violence, abuse of authority, and violence against a frequent parishioner [1]. The victim, who was an adult at the time of the alleged incidents, reported a series of sexual misconducts by the priest between late 2024 and 2025. The case originated from the victim’s denunciation, which led to an investigation by the Squadra Mobile of Bari, involving testimonies and intercepts that corroborated the allegations [2].
Arrest and Legal Proceedings
The arrest occurred while Martinelli was teaching at a professional institute in Corato. The investigation, initiated after the victim’s report, included interviews with individuals who had interacted with the accused and the use of surveillance data. The priest, who had previously served as the parish leader of the Sacro Cuore and later as a collaborator at the Chiesa Matrice, is now under house arrest as the case proceeds [4].
Professional Background of the Accused
Martinelli, a 56-year-old theologian and journalist, was known for his work as a professor of modern and contemporary philosophy and theoretical philosophy, as well as his role as a TV presenter on programs like “Due minuti per Dio.” He was also active on social media, sharing reflections on faith and cultural events. His career included roles as a cappellano at a senior care facility and involvement in educational initiatives for prisoners. Graduated in Philosophy in Bari, in 2017 he obtained a doctorate in Sacred Theology in Naples
[3]. He served as a member of the diocesan synod preparatory commission in 2013 and as a chaplain at the Oasi Madonna delle Grazie in Corato, supporting a senior care facility [3]. He was ordained a priest on 3 February 2007 and had led the Sacro Cuore parish for nearly a decade before being transferred to the Chiesa Matrice in July 2025 [3].
Future Steps in the Investigation
The Procura di Trani, supported by the Squadra Mobile, has been conducting the inquiry since the victim’s initial report. The investigation reportedly uncovered evidence of the accused’s influence over parishioners, with the victim describing a pattern of coercive behavior. The victim described a series of episodes in which he found himself forced to endure the priest’s attentions and sexual harassment.
[1]. Investigators have interviewed multiple individuals who spoke with the victim and analyzed surveillance data. The case is expected to proceed to trial, with the priest’s legal team yet to comment [2].
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