LOS OSOS, CA — Former Catholic priest Theodore Edward Gabrielli, 61, of San Diego, has been arrested and charged with aggravated sexual assault of a minor following a long-term investigation into abuse allegations dating back more than 30 years.
The arrest, carried out on June 12 by the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office, stems from reports filed in August 2024. Detectives from the Special Victims Unit uncovered testimony from three male victims, all under 14 years old at the time of the alleged abuse.
The victims, members of the same family living in Mexico, said Gabrielli gained their trust as a Catholic priest and took them on trips to California, including visits to his parents’ home in Los Osos. It was during these trips that the abuse reportedly occurred, continuing over a span of eight years.
Gabrielli has a history of serving in churches and ministries throughout San Jose, Los Gatos, and Los Angeles. Authorities suspect there may be additional victims and are urging anyone with relevant information to come forward.
Contact Information for Tips:
Sheriff’s Detective Division: (805) 781-4500
Crime Stoppers (Anonymous): (805) 549-STOP (7867),
P3 Tips App, or slotips.org
