Saint Mary hate crime investigation continues

by David Tesitor
WALSENBURG —  Last May, a death threat was received at the Diocese of Pueblo offices concerning Father Jean-Marie Mondji, the Pastor of Saint Mary Catholic Community, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation was called in to investigate.   
After several months, a report was generated November 2, 2015.  A Walsenburg woman and a Pueblo man have been under suspicion for the crimes.  The World Journal will not release the names of the people involved pending an arrest affidavit.
The disclosures are contained in a 30 page affidavit released by the FBI.  The affidavit claims the agent investigating the incident asserted there was probable cause to believe the alleged couple violated a federal law “intentionally obstructing by force or threat of force any enjoyment of that persons enjoyment of that persons exercise of religious belief,” the person being Father Mondji.  The affidavit also stated the FBI executed a search warrant to search the homes of the two suspects.  Among pieces of evidence was a handwritten note which was taped to the doors of the church which stated  ‘W- NO PASTOR! HE IS SATAN!’  The note was turned over to Dan Corsentino of DC Private and Investigative Security.  The note was sent to the FBI labs for analysis.  The affidavit also states the priest had disagreements with certain persons associated with the parish, including the woman, who in the past complained to diocese officials on more than one occasion that Mondji created a hostile work environment.  Another former member of the community said Mondji said ‘unkind things to the parishioners.’ That person thinks the priest has some mental issues.
Because of the recent events, the most Reverend Stephen Berg, Bishop of the Diocese of Pueblo, issued the following statement:
“Immediately upon the receipt of the threat against Father Jean Marie Mondji, law enforcement authorities were notified.  These authorities began an investigation into this threat.  This investigation is ongoing and all appropriate agencies are involved.  The Diocese has been cooperating fully and completely with this investigation.   Secondly, professionally trained security has been provided to Father Jean Marie Mondji and to the parishioners of all the churches of the Spanish Peaks Catholic Community.  Third, the FBI and local authorities are continuing this investigation, and the Diocese awaits the outcome and resolution of this investigation.  In the meantime, I, as Bishop, have taken all possible steps to provide for the safety and security of all the members of the Spanish Peaks Catholic Community.  Lastly, it is not appropriate to make any further comment during this active investigation.  We ask for your best wishes and prayers.”
While this investigation will come full circle soon, members of Saint Mary Church Community remain strong and faithful that this shadow which has affected them for the past eight months will have a positive resolution. Father Mondji continues to ask for prayers for the community. 
Security was present during last Sunday’s service, and the Bishop had a letter read to the parishoners.  
As more details are made public, the World Journal will continue to follow this story.