PROVIDENCE (RI)
WCVB - ABC 5 [Boston MA]
July 3, 2025
By Veronica Haynes
A Massachusetts priest has been removed from ministry after credible allegations of sexual misconduct involving two parishioners.
The Diocese of Fall River has removed Priest Jay Mello from Saint Michael’s and Saint Joseph’s after an investigation found allegations of sexual misconduct involving two parishioners to be credible.
The attorney for one of the victims stated that his client was sexually abused in 2011 and reported the incident to the diocese, but church leaders did not take action.
“My client was violently sexually abused. This was violent. It was a violent episode involving physicality, involving alcohol. It’s haunted my client, it still haunts him,” said attorney Mitchell Garabedian.
Mello is currently prohibited from practicing public ministry. The diocese has stated it will continue to offer support to those impacted by the situation.