Vienna, Austria - A Polish Catholic priest has been arrested after he confessed to producing crystal meth in his Austria parish’s rectory.
According to the Catholic News Agency, the priest was arrested alongside a 30-year-old Iraqi citizen from Vienna. The priest is originally from Poland and has been serving in the Austrian Diocese of St. Pölten since 2021.
Law enforcement officials revealed that State Criminal Police Office investigators searched the church’s rectory. They seized chemicals for producing crystal meth and laboratory equipment. The authorities pointed out that they suspect the drugs were intended for sale.
The Diocese of St. Pölten also responded to the crystal meth allegations by suspending the Catholic priest. The organization stated the priest is now prohibited from carrying out any pastoral activities within the diocese.