OREGON
KATU
SHERWOOD, Ore. — A Sherwood priest is wanted in connection with a hidden camera discovered at his church earlier this year.
The hidden camera was found last May inside a bathroom socket at St. Francis Catholic Church. When it was first discovered, Sherwood Police say the church’s priest, Father Ysrael Bien, reportedly lied to a parishoner that he had filed a police report and that an investigation was ongoing.
He’s now wanted on charges of invasion of privacy, tampering with evidence and initiating a false report.
According to a news release, police believe Bien may have left the country.
Officials at the Archdiocese of Portland said in a statement late Tuesday that Bien was placed on administrative leave because of the investigation. Officials said they were saddened to learn that he was being charged.
“It is gravely troubling to find out that one of our priests has been charged with criminal misconduct, but we appreciate the diligence of the Sherwood Police Department in pursuing its investigation of the incident,” said Archbishop Alexander Sample in the statement. “We will continue to cooperate with authorities in the resolution of this matter. Our prayers are with parishioners of Saint Francis Church, Sherwood, and all who have been affected.”
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