St. Petersburg Contractor Arrested in Alleged Church-Building Funds Misuse
A St. Petersburg contractor, William Botelho, was arrested by the Clearwater Police Department for allegedly misusing over $700,000 paid to him to build a church, using the funds for personal expenses instead.
Tampa St. Petersburg, FL, October 29, 2026 —
A St. Petersburg contractor, William Botelho, was arrested by the Clearwater Police Department in connection with allegations that he misused more than $700,000 paid to him to build a church. The funds were allegedly used for personal expenses instead.
The information provided does not identify the church or say where it is located. It also does not specify when the money was paid, when the alleged misuse occurred, or when Botelho was arrested. The precise amount above $700,000 was not provided.
The reported account describes the alleged use of the funds but does not state whether construction began or was completed, or what became of the project. It does not provide details about the agreement between Botelho and the church, the source of the payments, or how the alleged personal expenses were identified.
The specific criminal charges, if any, were not provided. No information was included about a court appearance, plea, or the status of the case. Botelho’s response to the allegations was also not provided. The allegations have not been accompanied here by information about an adjudication or finding of guilt.
The available details are limited to Botelho’s identity and stated residence in St. Petersburg, the Clearwater Police Department’s arrest, and the allegation involving more than $700,000 intended for church construction. Further details about the investigation and legal proceedings were not provided.
Story summarized from the original created by Brian McBride on www.tampabay28.com, see more information here.
