Fake priest 'Father Martin' steals money from Catholic Church

Houston police said the man was pretending to be a priest named "Father Martin." He was able to gain access to the church's rectory, where he stole cash.

He goes by "Father Martin" and police said they don't think a southwest Houston church is his only victim.

Houston police believe the man pretended to be a priest to steal from St. Thomas More Catholic Church on Hillcroft near Braeswood.

The theft happened on Oct. 27 but was only reported last week.

Investigators said they think the man claimed to be a priest visiting from Chicago. He told workers at the church that he left his keys in the rectory and he was allowed to go into the residence. That's when they said he stole cash.

Parishioners at the church were shocked to hear about what happened.

"I don't have words for that ... trying to impersonate someone," one parishioner said. "It's sad. You wish that didn't happen."

Police said the man spent about 30 minutes on church grounds before he left in a vehicle that was parked nearby.

Authorities also said the man has outstanding warrants for his arrest in California and Pennsylvania.

Police are hoping the public can help them find the man before another church falls victim.