Moscow police arrest monk known as ‘practically a saint’ on child sex abuse charges

Police in Khimki, a city near Moscow, have arrested a 44-year-old hieromonk from the Savior Transfiguration Monastery, a men's monastery in Murom. The clergyman faces charges of committing violent sexual acts against a girl younger than 12 years old. The arrest was confirmed by local law enforcement, with details emerging from the Russian news outlet 47news.

According to investigators, the monk used a fake name to connect with a schoolgirl from the Leningrad region on the social media platform VKontakte in February 2026. The two began an online correspondence, during which the hieromonk persuaded the minor to send him nude photographs. Sources indicate that the monk has reportedly confessed to the allegations.

Those familiar with the accused describe him as a long-time monk who had taken monastic vows many years ago and showed no interest in intimate relationships. Novices and parishioners at the monastery reportedly held him in high regard, considering him "practically a saint." The contrast between his public reputation and the charges has shocked the local community.

The investigation is ongoing. The hieromonk remains in custody. The monastery has not issued an official statement.