An independent investigator also privately researched the allegations in the case of Martinez-Solis. After reviewing the investigation report, the archdiocesan review board said the allegations were substantiated and that the archbishop should refer the case to the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, the statement said.
The review board said that Martinez-Solis poses a risk to minors, should not be returned to ministry, and that the affected communities should be notified.
“Our investigation highlighted the importance of our Code of Conduct and guidelines for ministry with minors, and of the value of our Virtus training, which helped us address this misconduct in a timely manner and prevent more serious abuse,” the archbishop said.
“I would like to express my gratitude and respect to the minor teen who bravely came forward and helped our Church by participating in the investigation,” he said.
“The archdiocese takes seriously any allegation of sexual misconduct with children. The safety and well-being of all people are very important, and the Church’s safe environment policies seek to protect all of God’s children,” he said.
Garcia encouraged any victim of sexual abuse to contact law enforcement and any victim within the archdiocese to contact the Office for Victim Assistance and Safe Environment at 210-734-7786.
A third party can report violations through the Archdiocesan Misconduct Hotline at 844-709-1169.
“I pledge my commitment to continue to work toward making every Catholic Church, school, and institution a safe harbor for all of our children. Please join me in prayer as we reach out to any and all who may be victims of sexual abuse,” García-Siller said.
Joseph Bukuras is a journalist at the Catholic News Agency. Joe has prior experience working in state and federal government, in non-profits, and Catholic education. He has contributed to an array of publications and his reporting has been cited by leading news sources, including the New York Times and the Washington Post. He holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from the Catholic University of America. He is based out of the Boston area.