DOWNINGTON — A Pennsylvania Roman Catholic priest is accused of stealing nearly $100,000 from his parish and spending it on a beach house and men he met on dating apps.
The Chester County District Attorney’s Office says 56-year-old Monsignor Joseph McLoone was arrested Wednesday for theft from St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Downingtown.
Father Joseph McLoone, a Downingtown resident, allegedly stole close to $100,000 and sent some of the money via Square to men he met on Grindr.https://t.co/T4y07gGcdG
— Philly Mag (@phillymag) August 21, 2019
Prosecutors allege the priest diverted funds into secret accounts and misappropriated fees charged to parishioners.
They say McLoone used the money to fund his personal lifestyle, including a beach house in Ocean City, N.J., as well as spending it on men he was dating.
Prosecutors allege McLoone gave himself a raise by doubling the amount he collected as a stipend for each Mass, wedding and funeral.
The Archdiocese of Philadelphia says McLoone is on administrative leave and they’re cooperating with authorities.
No attorney is listed in court documents.
