Given the gravity of the case, the dicastery escalated it to the pope, who imposed the harshest penalty under canon law: laicization.
Newsroom (18/09/2025, Gaudium Press ) In a decisive move, Pope Leo XIV has expelled Italian permanent deacon Alessandro Frateschi from the clerical state, marking the first known canonical sanction for abuse under the new pontiff’s tenure. The Diocese of Latina-Terracina-Sezze-Priverno announced the decision on Sept. 16, confirming that Frateschi, currently serving a 12-year prison sentence, was formally notified of the decree in Latina prison.
Frateschi, 46, was convicted in 2024 by an Italian civil court for sexually abusing five minors between 2018 and January 2023. The victims included three students from a secondary school in Latina, where Frateschi taught Catholic religion, a minor in foster care, and the son of family friends. The severity of the offenses prompted swift action from both civil and ecclesiastical authorities.
The diocese’s official statement read: “On the morning of Sept. 16, in the Latina prison, permanent deacon Alessandro Frateschi was notified of the decree of dismissal from the clerical state by direct decision of Pope Leo XIV. This decree of conviction is not appealable.” The canonical investigation, overseen by the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith’s disciplinary section, addressed “delicta graviora” — serious offenses, including crimes against the Sixth Commandment involving minors under 18. Given the gravity of the case, the dicastery escalated it to the pope, who imposed the harshest penalty under canon law: laicization.
As a result, Frateschi is barred from representing the Church, preaching, holding ecclesiastical roles, or teaching Catholic theology or religion in any academic setting, whether under Church authority or not.
The case first came to light in January 2023, when Bishop Mariano Crociata of Latina suspended Frateschi immediately upon learning of the allegations. After meeting with the deacon, Crociata accepted his resignation as a religion teacher, revoked his teaching qualifications, and initiated a preliminary investigation. The findings were promptly sent to Rome for further action.
The diocese expressed profound sorrow, stating, “The conclusion of the process leaves a wound in the entire diocesan community.” It extended solidarity to the victims and their families, reaffirming its commitment to protecting minors and vulnerable individuals. The diocese also urged the reporting of any abuse, past or present, to the Interdiocesan Service for the Protection of Minors, while emphasizing that such reports complement, rather than replace, recourse to civil authorities.
This case underscores the Catholic Church’s ongoing efforts to address clergy abuse with transparency and accountability, as well as the new pontiff’s resolve to enforce stringent measures against offenders.
- Raju Hasmukh with files from CNA
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