Father Joe LeClair, a well-liked Ottawa priest who embezzled $130,000 from his church two decades ago, has passed away. Father Dan van Delst from the Catholic Archdiocese of Ottawa-Cornwall confirmed that LeClair died on Thursday evening. The archdiocese launched an investigation into LeClair following reports of financial discrepancies at the Blessed Sacrament Church in the Glebe, where he had amassed a significant following over many years.
According to fraud investigators, LeClair siphoned off tens of thousands of dollars from the church through fraudulent checks between 2006 and 2011. In 2014, LeClair, who was diagnosed as a compulsive gambler, admitted guilt to the charges. He received a one-year jail term and a year of probation, but was granted early release due to good behavior while in prison.
Known for his engaging oratory skills and community involvement, LeClair saw a decline in church attendance during his legal issues. Despite this, some loyal parishioners continued to support him throughout his troubles.