Prague Archdiocese misconduct investigation

Antonín Juriga, the former executive director and notary of the Prague Archdiocese, was detained following police charges of sexual assault and torture. Authorities allege that Juriga used violence or threats of serious harm to force approximately fifteen to twenty individuals into sexual acts. The indictment also includes accusations of extortion and physical abuse, with some incidents reportedly occurring within the archdiocese building. The District Court for Prague 4 ordered his detention to prevent potential witness tampering.

The investigation has expanded to include allegations of economic crimes involving real estate transactions and land sales. In response, Archbishop Přibyl has initiated audits of the office’s finances dating back to the tenure of his predecessor, Jan Graubner, after discovering “unfavorable agreements.”

As the archdiocese cooperates with police and works with external lawyers to review commercial contracts, Archbishop Přibyl issued a pastoral letter stating that trust in the church has been “severely damaged.” To seek spiritual atonement, the Archbishop has invited the diocese to a pilgrimage of repentance scheduled for October 5, 2026.