Federal authorities have conducted an investigation into Brooklyn Monsignor Jamie Gigantiello following his transfer of $1.9 million to a company operated by a former aide to Democratic Mayor Eric Adams. Gigantiello, who has since been dismissed from his position at Our Lady of Mount Carmel – Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary parish, previously permitted the filming of a provocative music video on church premises.

He is alleged to have sent $1 million in parish funds to Abrams Fensterman LLC in January 2019. Subsequently, in 2021, he reportedly transferred an additional $900,000 to the same Democratic-affiliated firm without the consent or knowledge of his diocese.

Bishop Robert Brennan addressed the investigation into Gigantiello regarding the alleged financial misconduct, stating, as reported by the New York Post, “I am saddened to share that investigations conducted by Alvarez & Marsal and Sullivan & Cromwell LLP have uncovered evidence of serious violations of Diocesan policies and protocols at Our Lady of Mount Carmel – Annunciation Parish.”

In the same announcement, Brennan indicated that a successor has been appointed to ensure the safeguarding and proper management of church funds, declaring, “In order to safeguard the public trust and to protect church funds, I have appointed Bishop Witold Mroziewski as administrator of the parish.”

Arthur Aidala, representing Gigantiello, defended his client by asserting that his removal stemmed from misinterpretations of financial decisions rather than any failure in his spiritual responsibilities. Aidala stated, “The bishop relieved him of his financial duties, not his pastoral duties.” He contended that the transfers were part of an investment strategy for the church and therefore not inappropriate.

Additionally, Aidala addressed allegations concerning the alleged misuse of Gigantiello’s church credit card. He argued that the seemingly excessive and inappropriate expenditures did not constitute abuse, as “The credit card is part of his compensation package.”

The priest expressed his heartfelt apologies to the Bishop, the Diocese, the devoted parishioners, and all present for the matter of forgiveness. He elaborated, stating that in September, a local film crew approached the parish to scout a location that exemplifies the teachings and message of Christ. Sabrina Carpenter was mentioned as part of an initiative aimed at strengthening the connections between the young creative artists, who constitute a significant portion of the community, and the parish.

He further clarified, “I want to emphasize that I was not present during the filming. I had granted permission for the project with the expectation that it would honor our sacred space and refrain from including anything that contradicts our Catholic beliefs. While some scenes adhered to our faith, others did not.” He also asserted that he was unaware that the filming would feature elements contrary to Catholic doctrine.

In concluding his statement, he accepted full responsibility for the misguided decision to permit the filming. He assured the congregation that he had no prior knowledge of any scenes being filmed that would conflict with the sanctity of the church, which had been meticulously restored to its current sacred state. The statement concluded with a commitment to donate the $5,000 received from the filming to Bridge to Life, emphasizing the hope that this unfortunate incident could lead to the promotion of life.