Chaplain Marcelino A. N. was arrested on March 6 in connection with the case of five alleged sexual assaults on six-year-old girls at a school in La Moraleja, Madrid. The possibility of cover-up has been raised, and the case is under police and judicial investigation, with the latter being more active.
Some parents in the community believe that Marcelino was aware of the situation, as he had a close relationship with the founder of the congregation, Marcial Maciel. The priest was reportedly called to take a position at the El Encinar school in 2022.
One of the students at the school testified that she was a victim of up to 32 assaults by the chaplain. Despite the accusations, Marcelino has always defended Maciel's memory. The investigation focuses on the testimonies of the victims and the cooperation of witnesses, such as teachers and the school's director.
The first girl who reported the case has her case in judicial process, and it is expected that four more minors will be explored through established evidence. Additionally, three teachers will testify as witnesses before the magistrate in the case. On the other hand, the police are analyzing the seized computer material found in the defendant's house.
The priest Jesus Maria Delgado, who runs the school, may be a crucial witness in the case due to his position within the Legionaries of Christ congregation. It is expected that the judicial and police process will shed light on the accusations of sexual assaults at the La Moraleja school.
