Brooklyn Diocese Demotes Monsignor Over Fund Misuse

Monsignor Jamie Gigantiello of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Williamsburg has been demoted by the Diocese of Brooklyn after an internal investigation revealed he mishandled nearly $2 million in church funds, transferring the money to accounts associated with Frank Carone, former chief of staff to Mayor Eric Adams. Despite being relieved of administrative oversight, Gigantiello will remain the parish's pastor. The investigation was prompted by complaints regarding Gigantiello's approval of a pop star's music video filmed at the church, which violated Diocesan policies. Federal investigators have subpoenaed the church as part of a broader inquiry into potential corruption involving Adams. Gigantiello defended the financial transactions as investments yielding substantial returns for the parish, although he failed to document or seek approval for these dealings. The Diocese is also investigating additional financial misconduct, including unauthorized personal expenses charged to a church credit card.