Davis Priest Arrested for Relationship with Minor, on Administrative Leave

By Rowena Shaddox
Fox 40
May 11, 2014

http://fox40.com/2014/05/10/davis-priest-arrested-for-relationship-with-minor-on-administrative-leave/

DAVIS-

A week-long investigation ended with Davis police arresting Father Hector Coria of St. James Catholic Church.

“Unlawful sexual intercourse with a minor and oral copulation, is what occurred here,” Davis Asst. Police Chief Darren Pytel said.

Police believe Coria began the inappropriate relationship with a 17-year-old girl from his parish, late last year.

Investigators learned of the alleged affair just this week, and began their investigation, which led them to search several locations Friday, and ended with Coria being booked into the Yolo County Jail.

He has since made bail.

“Well, that may explain why confession was cancelled today,” parishioner Richard Bruce said.

The news of his arrest shocked many at Saturday’s evening mass.

“To me, he’s always been a very compassionate priest,” said fellow parishioner Betty Paro. “He’s always been here for us.”

Parishioner Karen Bordigon added “What he says is wonderful… teaching of Christ and stuff.”

“We had no clue. he seemed pious,”  Bruce added.

“He’s on administrative leave,his factulties have been withdrawn,.” Said Keven Eckery, spokesman for the Sacramento Catholic Diocese.

This means Corina can’t wear the collar, celebrate mass, or offer sacraments right now. Only Rome can permanently take away his ability to be a priest.

“We’ll just have to see how the investigation turns out,” added Eckery.

“They’re human like the rest of us,”  Paro said.

“He doesn’t walk on water, but who does anymore? right?” Bordigon said.

“I guess we’ll add him to the list as far as prayers are concerned,” Bruce added.