Fr. Joseph Cervantez Briceno

Ordained: 1981
Status: Convicted

Diocese: Diocese of Phoenix AZ

Placed on leave in 1992 after allegations that he abused a young brother and sister in early 1980s. Fled to Mexico. The bishop of Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico, Jose Ulises Macias Salocedo, appointed Cervantes Briceno deputy priest of the Parroquia de Cristo Rey in San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora. Subsequently, Cervantez Briceno moved to the Diocese of Mexicali where he continued in active ministry. The Diocese of Phoenix asked him to return but he refused. Indicted in 2003 in AZ. Disappeared until captured in Mexicali in 12/2005. Waived extradition and was returned to Phoenix in 1/2006. Trial started 10/11/2006. Pleaded guilty 10/16/2006. Sentenced to two years in prison and three years probation, and to register as sex offender. Reportedly released from prison in 2007 and was believed to be living in Phoenix, AZ. Laicized in 2010.

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