A former priest’s lawyer claims he only took money from several churches because he wasn’t paid enough as a priest.
Gregory Madeya, 69, was brought back to Westmoreland County from Florida three weeks ago.
The Pennsylvania attorney general accuses him of stealing more than $300,000 from three churches, including St. John the Baptist in McKeesport, Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Latrobe, and St. Demetrius in Jeannette.
He’s also accused of taking more than $230,000 from his own mother and not paying nearly a quarter of a million dollars in taxes.
According to police, Madeya used the money to pay for sexual acts, take luxury trips and gamble. Madeya’s attorney argues his habits started because of a need for money, and that he sees this case going to trial.
“There are no guidelines for what a priest can and can’t do in terms of the money that they’re responsible for,” said attorney Patrick Thomassey, who represents Madeya. “To tell you the truth, priests are paid very little money to be a priest and to run a parish. So we will see down the road what happens.”
Madeya waived his preliminary hearing Thursday and was granted a bond of $25,000, which his attorney said he will be able to post in the coming days.
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