Waterbury priest under theft investigation

Waterbury, Connecticut (WTNH) - The Hartford Archdiocese has requested a police investigation into missing church funds after it discovered a priest may have taken more than a million dollars for personal use.

The archdiocese said Saturday that the Rev. Kevin J. Gray, former pastor at Sacred Heart/Sagrado Corazon Parish in Waterbury, may have taken the money over a seven year period.

Meantime parishioners tell News 8 they are standing behind their former pastor.

“I don't believe the accusations,” Ruben Zapata said. “I'm in shock.”

“I couldn't believe it. I can't believe Father Gray could do it, commented Veronica Palombo. “I come here every Sunday.”

The archdiocese said it discovered the missing funds during a routine financial review.

Gladys Padilla said, “For us, he was always giving good advice…”

Gray was granted a medical leave in April, but now his troubles have increased as the church has suspended him while the investigation is ongoing.

“Father Gray is very humble. He helped the community out a lot,” continued Ruben Zapata. “He was involved in a lot of different charities and everyone feels the same about that.”

The Hartford Archdiocese said it was working with the parish to figure exactly out how much money is missing.