Lafayette, LA – St. Landry Parish deputies have arrested 57-year-old John William Modler Jr. of Ellicott, Maryland, in connection with a disturbing case of cyberstalking involving a Catholic nun. Modler, who was extradited from Texas, where he had been held on unrelated charges, was booked with felony cyberstalking. According to St. Landry Parish Sheriff Bobby Guidroz, Modler is also facing multiple warrants for larceny and fraud in several other states.
The investigation began in May 2024, after a Catholic nun reported that Modler had been sending her a series of highly inappropriate and vulgar emails since 2018. The two had met at a monastery in the St. Landry Parish area. Authorities say Modler used deceptive methods to locate the nun, even as she traveled from place to place.
In total, Modler allegedly sent more than 100 emails to the nun, employing various strategies to communicate with her. One of the most disturbing tactics involved Modler impersonating a priest, using an alias to gain her trust.
“We hope that this will bring peace of mind to the many faithful servants victimized in this incident,” Sheriff Guidroz said after Modler’s arrest.
The sheriff’s office is encouraging anyone with additional information about the case to come forward. Individuals can contact the St. Landry Parish Sheriff’s Office at 337-948-6516 or call Crime Stoppers at 337-948-TIPS. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through the P3 app, or by dialing **TIPS from a mobile phone. Tipsters may be eligible for a cash reward.
Modler’s arrest marks a significant development in the ongoing investigation, and authorities hope it will bring closure to the nun and others impacted by his actions.