San Diego Bishop Emmanuel Shaleta Arrested on Embezzlement and Money Laundering Charges

El Cajon, California – Bishop Emmanuel Shaleta, 60, of the St. Peter Chaldean Catholic Church, was arrested on March 5, 2026, at San Diego International Airport while attempting to leave the country, according to the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office . He faces multiple financial crime charges, including embezzlement and money laundering.

Charges and Allegations

Prosecutors have filed eight counts of embezzlement, eight counts of money laundering, and one count of aggravated white collar crime against Bishop Shaleta . The aggravated white collar crime charge applies to crimes exceeding $100,000.

The investigation began in August 2025, after a church representative contacted the Sheriff’s Office with documents alleging possible embezzlement . Investigators allege that Bishop Shaleta stole donations intended for the church.

Arrest and Bail

Bishop Shaleta was taken into custody at San Diego International Airport as he attempted to depart the United States . He is currently being held on $125,000 bail. However, a hold has been placed on his release pending a review of the funds’ origin, to ensure they were not obtained illegally .

Bishop Shaleta’s Response

In a video posted on the church’s YouTube page, Bishop Shaleta denied the allegations, stating, “I have never in my priestly life or episcopal life abused any. I have done my best to preserve and manage the donations of the church properly.”

Additional Allegations

According to reporting by NBC San Diego, an article published by The Pillar, an investigative Catholic news outlet, alleges that Bishop Shaleta visited brothels in Tijuana and frequently visited a woman with whom he shares a bank account.

Upcoming Arraignment

Bishop Shaleta is scheduled to be arraigned on Monday, March 9, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. In an El Cajon courtroom .

The St. Peter Chaldean Catholic Church has released a statement expressing solidarity with Bishop Shaleta and asking for prayers .