Controversy in Detroit: Priest Accused of Using Girl’s Hair as Floss During Church Exhibit

Carlos Martins, a priest from Detroit, is facing a misdemeanor violence charge after an incident involving a 13-year-old girl in Joliet, Illinois.

The supposed behavior occurred in St. Paul the Apostle Church on November 21, 2024, during a major event that included the nationwide Tour of the Relics of St. Jude the Apostle.

Martins, who was 50 years old and representing the tour at the time, was arrested on Monday and then freed after being given a notice to appear.

The Joliet Police Department issued a press release stating that the accusations are based on a report made that afternoon, which describes an interaction between the priest and the little girl.

The incident took place during public visits to the church, when the priest is said to have approached a 13-year-old girl who was waiting in line to see the relic of St. Jude.

According to reports, Martins asked her about her hair, and it was at this moment that the scenario became unsettling.

Martins then took the girl’s hair and made a flossing motion with it in his mouth, according to the police report.

Later, the girl said that once she sat down, the priest sat behind her and made a growling noise, which made her feel even more uncomfortable.

Officers were informed of this event, which resulted in an investigation being conducted by detectives from the Joliet Police Department.

The Will County State’s Attorney’s office received the detectives’ findings and finally approved the misdemeanor battery case against Martins.

A charge of misdemeanor battery is a criminal violation that entails causing bodily harm or making physical contact in a way that is offensive or provocative.

However, the police report did not specify the exact details of any physical harm that was inflicted on the victim.

After the charges were made, the Archdiocese of Detroit announced that Martins has been “temporarily removed” from his responsibilities.

The Archdiocese has not yet provided any additional information regarding the priest’s status or any possible steps that the church may take in response to the claims.

Because of the nature of the occurrence and the involvement of a religious figure, the case has attracted a lot of attention.

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Martins’ hearing is set for February 24 at the Will County Circuit Court in Joliet, where additional processes will occur.

This case brings attention to the persistent worries about the conduct of clergy members and the safety of adolescents in religious environments.

As the legal process continues, both the community and church leaders will be keeping a careful eye on any developments about this concerning occurrence.