Earlier today, Anglican Watch uncovered documentation that officials at St. Thomas Church Fifth Avenue have actual knowledge that church security guard Tristan Rodas is a convicted felon. As a result, members of the church have been exposed to a major security risk for at least seven months.
Written documents reveal that the Rev. Canon Carl Turner was informed in writing of Rodas’ criminal history in December 2024.
Moreover, Bishop Heyd had actual knowledge of the matter in early 2025 and was told of the matter twice.
Despite these issues, Rodas continued to work at St. Thomas’.
Rodas’ prior felony conviction make him ineligible to be a licensed security guard in the state of New York.
Additionally, Rodas has been convicted of two crimes involving children:
1. Selling heroin to children.
2. Using a child in the commission of a felony.
The situation is exacerbated by Rodas’ lengthy string of convictions, including shoplifting and additional drug and weapons charges.
Anglican Watch reiterates our previous demand that Bishop Heyd, Carl Turner, and the St. Thomas wardens/vestry resign immediately over their gross failure to safeguard church assets.
Additionally, we demand that the Diocese and the parish stop their retaliation against the person who alerted them to this security breach.
Additionally, we note that failure to safeguard church assets and property is a violation of church clergy disciplinary canons. Canon Canon IV.4.1(e) expressly requires clergy to:
safeguard the property and funds of the Church and Community;
This level of gross corruption, indifference, and incompetence is shocking and appalling, even for the Episcopal Church.
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