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San Diego Chaldean Bishop Pleads Not Guilty to Embezzlement and Money-Laundering Charges

Prosecutors allege roughly $270,000 in church donations are missing, with a preliminary hearing expected in late April.

Overview

  • Emanuel Shaleta entered a not guilty plea at his first San Diego County court appearance following his March 5 arrest.
  • Judicial records list eight counts of embezzlement, eight counts of money laundering, and an aggravated white-collar enhancement.
  • Authorities say he was detained at San Diego International Airport while attempting to leave the United States.
  • The county prosecutor said Shaleta had more than $9,000 in cash on him, and investigators allege about $270,000 in donations cannot be accounted for.
  • Bail reporting is inconsistent, with court records showing $125,000 while local coverage cites $250,000 tied to the alleged $270,000 theft.