Fr. David Espitia
Espitia spent several years as a Brigittine monk before attending St. Mary’s seminary. Ordained for the San Angelo diocese. In early 6/03 Espitia told Bishop Pfeifer that someone was accusing him of sexually abusing a minor. Espitia denied the abuse but said he would step aside temporarily. On 6/13/03 he was found hanged in the rectory. Police investigation of suicide found child pornography on his computer. His accuser filed a civil suit in 12/09, claiming Espitia abused him over eight years, until 2002. Settled at mediation in 11/11. On the diocese’s list 2/13/19.
- Associated Press 06.13.03
- Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Chronicle 06.17.03
- Associated Press 06.17.03
- Dallas Morning News 06.18.03
- West Texas Angelus, page 4, 07.01.03
- Associated Press 07.24.03
- San Angelo Times 01.22.06
- CBS 7 12.29.09
- Midland Reporter-Telegram 12.30.09
- NewsWest9 12.30.09
- MyWestTexas 12.31.09
- San Angelo Standard Times 11.21.11
- Odessa American 11.23.11
- San Angelo Standard Times 11.28.11
- Midland Reporter-Telegram 11.28.11
- San Angelo Standard Times 11.29.11
- SNAP Statement 11.30.11
- Diocese of San Angelo List 02.13.19
Sources:
Return to main database page. See abbreviations and posting policy. Send corrections.
Our Database of Publicly Accused does not state or imply that individuals facing allegations are guilty of a crime or liable for civil claims. The reports contained in the database are merely allegations. The U.S. legal system presumes that a person accused of or charged with a crime is innocent until proven guilty. Similarly, individuals who may be defendants in civil actions are presumed not to be liable for such claims unless a plaintiff proves otherwise. Admissions of guilt or liability are not typically a part of civil or private settlements. For more information, see our posting policy.