Priest Vito Martinelli arrested for aggravated sexual violence

Vito Martinelli, a 56-year-old priest, has been placed under house arrest following accusations of aggravated sexual violence involving an abuse of authority. The charges involve a 23-year-old man who had been a parishioner at the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in Corato and was aspiring to the priesthood.

Investigators from the Bari Mobile Squad state that the alleged incidents occurred between 2022 and 2025. The prosecution's case is supported by Telegram messages, audio recordings, and testimonies from individuals to whom the victim had confided. While the victim had previously reported the matter to the Curia, the legal proceedings followed a formal complaint.

The Archdiocese of Trani-Barletta-Bisceglie expressed “deep pain and bewilderment” regarding the allegations. Archbishop Leonardo D’Ascenzo noted that a preliminary investigation had been initiated last November, leading to the priest's immediate suspension from all pastoral duties. Martinelli maintains his innocence and denies all allegations.