Investigation

Chicago Priest Removed From Ministry During Investigation Into Computer Content

The Chicago Archdiocese called the investigation "unsettling"

Archbishop Blase Cupich removed a Chicago priest from ministry as an investigation into content found on the priest's computer is underway.

The archdiocese announced the removal of Fr. Octavio Munoz Capetillo, pastor of St. Pancratius Church in the Southwest Side Brighton Park neighborhood, on Monday.

Munoz was removed due to the "pending resolution of an investigation of material found on a computer in his possession," according to the Chicago Archdiocese. Cupich withdrew Munoz's authority to minister while the investigation continues.

In the meantime, the archdiocese will appoint an administrator to assume Munoz's duties at the church and Munoz must move out of the parish.

The archdiocese called the investigation "unsettling" and vowed to provide updates as they become available. 

Prior to his appointment as pastor of St. Pancratius in July, Munoz was the rector of Casa Jesus, an organization for young Hispanic men interested in becoming a priest.

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