Las Vegas NowSelf-Proclaimed Prophet Arrested on Sex Charges
Metro says Catello may not have had the beard shown in this photo in recent years.LAS VEGAS, Nev. -- Metro arrested Benito Catello, a 75-year-old “self proclaimed prophet” on Friday. Catello is facing 29 felony charges, including sexual assault, sexual assault of a victim under 14 years, and lewdness with a minor under 14 years.
Metro says Catello is the leader of “The Ministry”, a church run out of his home located near the intersection of Owens and Mount Hood in the northeast part of Las Vegas. Neighbors says there was a lot of traffic in and out of the home.
"There are so many people here on Fridays and Saturdays for potluck supper and stuff. We were told it's about religion ," said Kim Neckar, a neighbor. She said she often saw young people at the home.
Catello is described as a white male adult, 5’5” tall and weighing 155 lbs. with gray hair and blue eyes.
Metro investigators are asking any individuals who may have been a victim of Benito Catello or who may know of additional victims or have any information pertaining to this suspect to contact Metro immediately at (702) 385-5555.
Catello is being held in the Clark County Detention Center. He's expected to make his first court appearance on Wednesday.
