A renowned Detroit priest is facing disturbing allegations after being charged with misdemeanor battery for what is being described as a bizarre incident involving a teenage girl. Father Carlos Martins, 50, the host of the popular podcast "The Exorcist Files," reportedly approached the 13-year-old girl at St. Paul the Apostle Church in Joliet, Illinois, during a religious event on November 21, 2024. Eyewitness accounts suggest he made comments about her hair before grabbing it and pretending to floss with it, leaving both the girl and those around her unnerved.
According to police reports, Father Martins allegedly grabbed the young girl’s hair and made flossing motions with it as they waited to view a religious relic. Not content with this initial act, he later positioned himself behind her and is accused of making unsettling growling noises. Such behavior prompted outrage and concern, leading to accusations of misconduct and subsequent investigations.
The incident reportedly occurred during a national touring exhibit of St. Jude the Apostle, where Martins was interacting with students. Charged on January 29, 2025, Martins did not remain idle; he turned himself in after the allegations surfaced and has since pleaded not guilty, asserting his innocence against what his attorney has called “egregious and unfounded” accusations.
Marcelle Burke, the lawyer representing Martins, vehemently defended him, stating, “The evidence will show Fr. Carlos did not batter anyone, or ‘floss’ with hair or ‘growl’ among other completely false and repulsive accusations — this remains a takedown of a good priest and an attempted shakedown of the Church.” Burke elaborated, arguing the priest’s intentions were misunderstood and should be viewed as harmless jokes aimed at establishing rapport with the students.
Burke’s defense included claims about Martins jokingly discussing his own baldness as conversation starters, and how he had quipped with the girl about her long hair. According to Burke, Martins playfully commented, “You and I have almost the same hairstyle,” and humorously suggested he could “floss” with it, prompting laughter from the then-amused audience. She stated, “He was engaging with the students as he always does.”
The alleged actions led to widespread concern, resulting in the Companions of the Cross, the religious order with which Martins is affiliated, suspending him from public ministry pending the outcome of the investigation. The order issued its own statement, acknowledging the serious nature of the allegations and expressing their commitment to due process. “We pray for all those who are affected by this painful situation,” they stated, emphasizing the importance of addressing such claims with sensitivity.
If found guilty, Father Martins faces the possibility of serving up to one year of probation or imprisonment. His upcoming court date is set for February 24, where he will present his case. Throughout this ordeal, he has maintained his innocence, and his status within the Archdiocese of Detroit is currently categorized as “ministry revoked,” reflecting the organization’s action to address the serious allegations made against him.
This situation highlights the broader issues surrounding trust and authority within the church, especially concerning youth interaction. Father Martins is not just known for his podcast; he has built his reputation around exorcisms and religious discourse over almost two decades of ministry. The accusation of such bizarre behavior challenges the community's perceptions of clergy and raises questions about accountability and safety within religious environments.
Martins will continue to defend his position, aiming for exoneration, with his attorney asserting faith in the legal process. Yet, regardless of the outcome, this case reflects larger societal concerns, and many within the church and community will be watching closely.