This month, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Little Rock announced the firing of Father Charles Thessing. The embattled priest was arrested on two counts of aggravated cruelty to animals. Bishop Anthony Taylor, who released a letter to the community, announced Thessing had been suspended pending the outcome of the investigation.
In a post to their Facebook, West Memphis Police broke down the alleged crime. “On Friday, February 7, 2025, Officers responded to the West Memphis Animal Shelter in reference to information that was received of the suspect, Charles J. Thessing of West Memphis, AR allegedly committing acts of animal cruelty,” they said.” Det. Sgt. Chad Davis of Criminal Investigations Division began investigating the incident that subsequently resulted in a search of the residence where evidence of the allegations was located.”
“As you know, on Feb. 11 your pastor, Father Charles Thessing, was arrested and charged with two counts of aggravated cruelty to animals. The allegations are disturbing, and as your bishop, I take them very seriously,” the bishop announced. “At the same time, I also take seriously Father Thessing’s rights to due process and the presumption of innocence.”
“Having heard from numerous voices within the parish, the school, and the broader community; having consulted with others, and having given this matter much prayer and consideration, I have determined that Father Thessing cannot continue serving as an effective pastor for your parishes,” Bishop Anthony Taylor wrote in his letter which was published in a local catholic paper.
“Thus, I have already communicated to him that he is suspended from functioning as your pastor, and that his faculties are suspended pending the outcome of the criminal process,” Taylor continued. “At the same time, I know that Father Thessing has many supporters — many whose lives he has positively impacted. He is well-loved by many for bringing them and their families closer to God.”
“During this difficult time, I would ask every person of goodwill — Father Thessing’s supporters and detractors alike — to keep him, your parishes and your school in your prayers,” the Bishop concluded. “I plan to celebrate the Masses for you this weekend in West Memphis and Crawfordsville. I look forward to being present with and accompanying you during this difficult time. And I am actively working on plans for the future leadership of both of your parishes.”
The priest is suspected of drowning two cats. After a search warrant, he was discovered with animal traps, a water tank and the remains of two felines. Kerry Facello, Director of West Memphis Animal Services, said, “We were very fortunate that someone, a concerned citizen, brought our attention to the situation, and we addressed it immediately.”
Watch Coverage of the Alleged Crime Here:
“The West Memphis Police Department worked so fast in obtaining a search warrant and allowing us to investigate further and see exactly what was going on,” she added. Animal cruelty is a felony in Arkansas, and if convicted, the priest could face up to 6 years in prison. Police state that while ” Arrest warrants were issued for Thessing, and he was taken into custody without incident,” the investigation is ongoing.
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