Federal authorities have apprehended Daniel Balizan, a former Catholic priest from Springer, New Mexico, on charges of coercion and enticement of a minor. The indictment alleges that Balizan used text messages to engage in illicit sexual activity with a minor in Santa Fe County during August and September 2012. He faces a minimum sentence of 10 years if convicted, with a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. Balizan's initial court appearance is set for Friday.
Records indicate Balizan's service at several parishes across New Mexico, including Santa Maria de la Paz Parish beginning in June 2012, as well as assignments in Raton, Albuquerque, Clovis, Chama, and Socorro. The Catholic Archdiocese of Santa Fe confirmed receiving allegations against Balizan in 2022, leading to his removal from service and subsequent reporting to law enforcement. Last year, the diocese settled nearly 400 claims of abuse by Catholic clergy for $121.5 million. In New Mexico, approximately 74 priests have been identified as "credibly accused" of child sexual assault during their tenure at parishes and schools within the archdiocese.
