‘Exorcist Files’ priest sues Catholic commentators who questioned his credentials

Father Carlos Martins, host of the podcast "The Exorcist Files," is suing two Catholic commentators for defamation. Martins filed the lawsuit in November 2025 against Jesse Romero, identified in court documents as Jesus O. Romero Jr., and Kyle Clement. The lawsuit also names Catholic Resource Center Inc. of Los Angeles, the broadcaster of the "Jesus 911" podcast, as a defendant.

The legal action follows statements made by Clement during a November 2024 appearance on Romero's podcast. According to the complaint, Clement claimed Martins is not who he says he is and is speaking about subjects he does not understand. Martins alleges these statements are false and defamatory because he has functioned as an exorcist with the necessary knowledge and experience.

The lawsuit claims the comments harmed Martins' credibility as a religious figure and affected the sales and reception of his book, "The Exorcist Files." Clement serves as the director of formation and training for a religious society of priests founded by Father Chad Ripperger, who is not a defendant in the case. The lawsuit remains pending.