Father Carlos Martins, host of The Exorcist Files podcast and a Vatican-affiliated exorcist, has been fully cleared of all criminal charges related to a November 21, 2024 event at Queen of Apostles Parish in Joliet, Illinois. The charges, which stemmed from a misunderstood comment made during a public relic exposition, were dismissed by the Will County State’s Attorney’s Office. Initially, the incident was falsely interpreted as potential sexual misconduct involving a minor, leading to damaging speculation online. Martins’ attorneys described the allegations as baseless and absurd, and emphasized his consistent innocence. The case’s dismissal has allowed Father Martins to resume his ministry and national tour.
An Illinois court has dropped misdemeanor battery charges against Fr. Carlos Martins, a well-known priest accused of inappropriate conduct toward a student during a relic tour in Joliet last November. His attorney called the charge "absurd" and said the dismissal was expected. If convicted, Martins could have faced up to a year in jail.