We wish to provide an update regarding Fr. Carlos Martins, CC. In January 2025, Fr. Martins was charged with misdemeanor battery following an incident in November 2024 at a parish in Joliet, Illinois. At that time, Fr. Martins voluntarily withdrew from ministry.
On July 30, 2025, the State’s Attorney’s Motion for Deferred Prosecution was granted, and the matter was dismissed. However, a canonical investigation still needed to be completed to investigate the incident in the context of Church law. This investigation was recently completed by the Diocese of Joliet, and it was concluded that no canonical crime occurred.
As noted in the previous statement in January 2025, every accused is entitled to due process. We recognize that any allegation of misconduct against a priest is newsworthy. At the same time, it is essential to update stories and reports to reflect that the charges have been dismissed to assist in restoring the reputation of Fr. Martins.
The Companions of the Cross look upon allegations of misconduct as an urgent matter that requires serious attention.
We continue to pray for all those who are affected by this painful situation.