Controversy clouds the community of West Memphis, Arkansas, as 63-year-old Charles Thessing, a pastor at St. Michael Church, is charged with aggravated animal cruelty. Actions incongruent with pastoral duties have prompted the Diocese of Little Rock to suspend Thessing indefinitely. This suspension follows his arrest on Tuesday, which, according to WREG, is in connection with accusations of trapping and drowning cats. The severity of these allegations is enough to disturb any community, especially one so intimately tied to their local church.
The turn of events was set in motion by an investigation sparked by a tip from a concerned citizen. "We were very fortunate that someone, a concerned citizen brought our attention to the situation and we addressed it immediately," Kerry Facello, Director of West Memphis Animal Services, stated, per WREG. Reports from FOX13 Memphis uncovered that the evidence leading to Thessing's arrest included the discovery of two dead cats and animal traps on his property.
In a letter to the parishioners, Bishop Anthony B. Taylor expressed the gravity of the situation, "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." The letter highlighted by Action News 5 indicates a shrouded road ahead for Thessing, who also preaches at Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in Crawfordsville.
