Scandal at Brooklyn Church: Priest Removed Amid Financial Mismanagement Following Sabrina Carpenter's Music Video

In a dramatic turn of events, Monsignor Jamie Gigantiello, the head of a Brooklyn church where pop sensation Sabrina Carpenter filmed a controversial music video, has been stripped of all his administrative duties. The decision was prompted by a church investigation that uncovered alarming instances of financial mismanagement beyond the video fiasco.

The Roman Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn, under the leadership of Bishop Robert Brennan, announced that Gigantiello has been relieved of his roles due to serious violations of diocesan policies and procedures. An investigation by Alvarez & Marsal and Sullivan & Cromwell LLP revealed unauthorized financial transactions linked to Gigantiello, including significant transfers of church funds to a former city official.

The controversy began in November 2022 when Carpenter's music video for her song “Feathers” sparked outrage. The video features unsettling scenes including men acting aggressively towards Carpenter, who ultimately prevails in a series of gruesome retributions against them. One particularly striking segment showcases Carpenter arriving at the church in a pink hearse and dancing in a dramatic ensemble in front of the altar, surrounded by faux coffins. The diocese condemned the video, stating that the proper procedures for filming within the church had not been followed.

In light of the investigation, Bishop Brennan has appointed Bishop Witold Mroziewski to oversee parish affairs, effectively stripping Gigantiello of his administrative powers. While he retains the ability to say Mass under Mroziewski's approval, his capacity for governance has been completely revoked. This shake-up also led to the dismissal of a deacon involved in the investigation, who was accused of using racist language during recorded conversations.

Further revelations indicate that between 2019 and 2021, Gigantiello facilitated nearly $1.9 million in questionable financial transactions, transferring funds into accounts associated with Frank Carone, the former chief of staff to Mayor Eric Adams, now facing corruption allegations. The diocese reported that these actions violated established protocols and could lead to serious legal implications.

Federal investigators have also entered the fray, issuing subpoenas for information about the financial dealings between the church and Carone. Despite the scrutiny, neither party has yet been formally accused of wrongdoing. Gigantiello defended his actions, claiming his investment strategies were legitimate and financially beneficial to the church.

The fallout from Carpenter’s music video has not only caused institutional upheaval but has also become a talking point in pop culture. During a recent concert at Madison Square Garden, Carpenter made light of the situation, joking with the audience about the chaos that ensued, quipping, “Damn, what now? Should we talk about how I got the mayor indicted?”

As this scandal continues to unfold, questions linger about the intersection of faith, finance, and pop culture, leaving congregants and fans alike watching closely for the next chapter in this unfolding drama. Will the church recover from this scandal, and what more will come to light as investigations proceed? Stay tuned!