Couldn't resist temptation: Pennsylvania priest spent more than $40k from church coffers on mobile games

Usually priests help people fight their vices, but not Father Lawrence of South Coventry, Pennsylvania, USA.

Father Lawrence Kozak has been accused of embezzling funds that parishioners donated to St Thomas More Church.

Here's What We Know

After it was discovered that more than $40,000 was missing from the church, the investigation revealed that it was misappropriated by ... parish priest Lawrence Kozak!

His goal was not personal enrichment, he spent the money on in-game purchases on popular mobile games.

The Padre was addicted to Wizard of Oz, Candy Crush Saga, Cash Frenzy, Mario Kart Tour and Pokemon Go. These games are known for forcing users prone to spontaneous purchases to spend large sums on cosmetic items, extra attempts, obtaining currency, sometimes ad blocking and more.

Father Kozak was arrested on 25 April and formally charged with theft. In court, the priest stated that he was not into gaming at all, but that he needed to "recuperate". We do not know what the priest meant by this, but in any case, apart from the lost reputation, he is obliged to return the stolen money.

Sometimes it is not a good idea to take an example from priests, as they too are only human.

Source: 6ABC