PRIEST ARRESTED FOR ALLEGED RAPE

October 21, 2022 Provincial

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union  A priest was arrested Thursday by agents of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in Region 2 for allegedly molesting and raping several times a 16- year old girl who serves as volunteer of a youth ministry at the St. Vincent Parish in Solana, Cagayan. The suspect was identified as Rev. Fr. Karole Reward Israel, assistant Parish Priest of St. Vincent and a resident of Barangay Tucalana, Lallo, Cagayan.

Reports from Bombo Radyo disclosed that the suspect was arrested after the NBI conducted rescue
operation in Barangay Iraga in Solana. It was learned that the suspect started molesting the victim inside his car in February 8 this year when the priest invited the girl to go to Aparri town and on Feb. 22, he
allegedly rape the girl inside a hotel room.

The incident allegedly happened several times and the victim was afraid and prevented from reporting the matter because the suspect allegedly threatened her to spread sex photos and videos. The victim allegedly tried to commit suicide but was subdued. She allegedly told her ordeal to her teacher which was subsequently reached her parent who later seek NBI assistance.

The suspect, which was under NBI custody, faces criminal charges of RA 7877 or Anti Sexual Harassment Act, RA 9262 or Violence Against Women and their Children Act, RA 9995 or Anti Photo and Video Voyeurism Act and RA 7610 or Child Abuse The STAR is trying to reach the suspect for his comment.

Jun Elias/ABN