Fr. Luis Jesus Barajas Arias
From Colombia. Assigned to the Harrisburg diocese to assist with the Spanish-speaking population in York and Lebanon. Named as accused by the diocese on its list 8/1/2018. Included in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Personnel file shows that in 1989 there were concerns about past allegations against him of child sexual abuse. The diocese gave Barajas money to return to Colombia in 11/1989. Laicized. Arrested in VA in 2019 for misconduct in 2013 with a minor. No prosecution. Arrested 10/23/2023 in Elyria OH, charged with gross sexual imposition. Barajas, age 76, was staying with families in the area, presenting himself as a retired priest and conducting ‘spiritual ceremonies.’ He allegedly inappropriately touched a 15-year-old girl while ‘blessing’ her. The girl was being treated for cancer. A local priest reported the incident to police. Indicted by a grand jury 11/9/2023. Pleaded guilty 2/13/24. To be sentenced 2/27/24.
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