Diocese of Zamora investigates alleged sexual abuse by priest

The Diocese of Zamora has announced the opening of a canonical procedure following allegations of sexual abuse against a diocesan priest. The accusations involve incidents that reportedly occurred when the complainants were minors.

Bishop Fernando Valera initiated a preliminary investigation to gather testimonies and documentation. Following this phase, the case was submitted to the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith in Vatican City. The Dicastery has reviewed the actions taken and ordered the opening of a formal canonical procedure to clarify the facts and determine responsibilities.

The Diocese has informed civil authorities and expressed its willingness to cooperate with justice. As precautionary measures, the priest has been temporarily removed from his duties as parish priest, suspended from public ministry, and prohibited from participating in any activities involving minors. These measures are preventive and do not predetermine the outcome of the ongoing proceedings.