Clerical impersonation investigation in Turin

Authorities in Turin, Italy, are investigating a 25-year-old man, identified as Salam Faragalla, who allegedly posed as a Coptic Catholic priest for approximately four months. Using falsified ordination certificates and forged credentials as an engineering student at the Polytechnic University of Turin, the individual integrated into several parishes, including Santa Rosa da Lima, San Leonardo Murialdo, and Nostra Signora del Sacro Cuore di Gesù.

During his tenure, which reportedly began in June, the man celebrated Masses and heard confessions. He allegedly attributed his distinct liturgical style to the differences between the Alexandrian and Latin rites. The deception was uncovered after a parishioner raised suspicions, leading to investigations by the Diocese and the Italian Episcopal Conference.

Verification with Coptic Catholic leaders in Egypt confirmed that the man’s documents were not authentic. The Archdiocese of Turin has since removed him from his positions, deleted his name from its official website, and filed a formal fraud complaint with the Prosecutor’s Office. It was noted that during his time in the community, the man received housing, food, and compensation for his services.