By Canadian Press

Ontario priest charged in theft of $500,000 meant for refugees

Jul 15, 2016 | 12:10 PM

LONDON, Ont. — A priest in London, Ont., has been charged with fraud in the alleged theft of more than $500,000 meant for refugees.

Police say Amer Saka of the St. Joseph Chaldean Catholic Church allegedly obtained the money from over 20 people under the guise of a sponsorship program to bring refugee families into Canada.

London police say the investigation began in February with the co-operation of the Hamilton Catholic Diocese and spanned throughout Ontario, the United States and other countries where refugees were trying to come to Canada.

Saka, 51, was arrested on Wednesday and faces two charges — fraud exceeding $5,000 and possess proceeds of property or thing exceeding $5,000.

The investigation is ongoing and anyone who may have had dealings with Saka is encouraged to contact London police.

Saka’s lawyer told CTV London that her client remains devoted to his parishoners.

“It’s a very difficult time for him,” said Iryna Revutsky. “He is a man of God and these allegations, it’s very early in the process, so at this point in time we don’t know how they’re going to be resolved.”

The Canadian Press

Ontario priest charged in theft of $500,000 meant for refugees

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