Fr. Adam Lee Ortega y Ortiz
Per a 6/2019 proof of claim in the Santa Fe archdiocese’s bankruptcy, Ortega y Ortiz sexually harrassed and abused a teenage boy, ages 17-19, from 2013 to 2016. The claimant, who was a parishioner of the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, alleges that Ortega y Ortiz would twist his nipples, slap his butt, kiss him on the lips, and hug him while pushing his genital area against him. Ortega y Ortiz also, while driving, allegedly would grab and squeeze the claimant’s penis, and would hold his hand and kiss it, saying “I love you hito.” The abuse allegedly occurred over 100 times, and the claimant said “there wasn’t a time he would keep his hands off me.” Ortiz y Ortega was accused in 10/2013 by the Cathedral’s recently fired music director of “crude and inappropriate behavior” and was unable “to keep his hands to himself.” Ortega y Ortiz was cleared by the Archdiocese after several weeks, but was told to be cautious around youth. In 12/2018 he stepped down from his position as rector of the Cathedral, citing “personal challenges.” He had been absent for months without explanation to his parishioners. In 1/2024 Ortega y Ortiz was appointed acting judicial vicar of the Tribunal, and to assist a deacon in prison ministry.
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