IPS Teodosie, the archbishop of Tomis, was caught with a 147,000 euro Mercedes, purchased on lease by the priests from the 1st Constanța Protopresbytery, sparking controversy.

The Archdiocese of Tomis is at the center of a controversy, after it was revealed that priests from the 1st Constanța Protoierea purchased a Mercedes-Benz 580 e 4Matic L Hybrid car, valued at approximately 147,000 euros, for IPS Teodosie. The car was bought on lease, with a monthly payment of nearly 3,000 euros, and the contract was concluded with a company from Suceava County, the archbishop's hometown. Although the car is listed as the property of the Protoierea, it is used exclusively by Teodosie, who was seen arriving with the car at the Constanța Tribunal. Teodosie previously stated that he does not own luxury cars, but he has been involved in expensive purchases, including another Mercedes E-Class in 2024. The archbishop, known for his controversies, has been sanctioned by the Romanian Orthodox Church and has been involved in several criminal investigations, including for defrauding European funds. Despite the sanctions, his influence remains strong, having connections with priests, businessmen, and local politicians.