DES MOINES, Iowa – A Catholic priest in Iowa has pleaded not guilty to charges of stealing $164,000 from his parish, allegedly funneling the funds through a fake missionary organization before transferring them into his personal accounts.
Fr. Tom Thakadipuram Arrested for Theft
Fr. Tom Thakadipuram, 61, was arrested in February and charged with six counts of first-degree theft and one count of second-degree theft. Each first-degree charge carries a potential 10-year prison sentence, while the second-degree charge could add up to five more years if convicted.
According to investigators, Thakadipuram moved large sums of parish money into a fraudulent bank account for a fake missionary group, of which he was the sole account holder. From there, he allegedly transferred the funds to his personal account.
Authorities say that when confronted, Thakadipuram attempted to close his personal bank accounts and relocate the money, further raising suspicions.
Diocese Responds to Allegations
The Diocese of Des Moines confirmed that Thakadipuram has resigned as pastor of St. Mary Parish in Shenandoah and St. Mary Parish in Hamburg. While the diocese is honoring the canonical presumption of innocence, officials have launched an internal investigation to determine whether a canonical penal process should proceed.
A diocesan spokesperson stated that they “respect the ongoing law enforcement investigation” and will not interfere with the criminal proceedings.
Financial Experts Weigh In
Experts say the case highlights the need for stricter financial controls within dioceses. Rob Warren, an accounting professor and former IRS investigator, suggested that parishes implement preventative measures, such as requiring dual signatures for financial transactions, to reduce the risk of embezzlement.
Other Clergy Facing Similar Charges
Thakadipuram is not the only Iowa priest facing criminal charges. In December 2024, Fr. Steven McLoud of the Diocese of Sioux City was charged with embezzling nearly $70,000 by falsifying expense reports over several years.
Thakadipuram’s legal case is ongoing, and neither he nor his attorney have responded to media requests for comment.
