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Italy Today

Italian news in English

Thursday, April 3, 2025

Former Priest Faces Abuse Allegations

Published: 2025-03-27

Don Samuele Marelli, a former prominent figure in the Diocese of Milan, is under investigation for alleged sexual misconduct involving boys at a parish in Seregno, Italy.

Marelli, who once led the Federation of Milanese Oratories, overseeing 1,200 youth centers, is accused of inappropriate behavior between 2017 and 2024. Ten boys have come forward with testimonies, prompting both a canonical trial and a criminal investigation by the Monza Prosecutor's Office.

The Church removed Marelli from his roles in 2024, citing the need for a "psychological recovery period," though this was later linked to the allegations.

The canonical trial is nearing its conclusion, with a verdict expected in April.

Marelli has been stripped of his duties and relocated to another diocese.