ROCKLEDGE, Fla. (WESH) -Authorities arrested a Rockledge priest Friday in connection with a fraud case, officials said. The Rev. Nicholas King, 73, who had been pastor of St. Mary’s Parish, was charged with larceny under false pretenses and scheme to defraud, the Brevard County Jail said.
According to booking information, more than $50,000 was allegedly taken.
King posted bail and was released from jail Friday.
Rockledge police did not provide any other information.
On Saturday, the Orlando Catholic Diocese released the following statement:
“We have been informed that Father Nicholas King, former pastor of St. Mary, Rockledge, is the subject of an investigation by the Rockledge Police Department. He is removed from ministry while the investigation is ongoing. The Diocese is cooperating with the investigation. We are saddened by the news of his arrest and ask that people of good will pray for Father King during (this) difficult time and for all those involved in this investigation. May the gracious care of the Lord our God be ours.”
The diocese’s website shows King came to the diocese in 1968. The St. Mary’s Parish website shows another priest was appointed to head the church Thursday.
