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child sex abuse lawyer

Nov 29 2019

Four New York priests suspended over child sexual abuse allegations

The Archdiocese of New York placed four priests on administrative leave after they were accused of child sexual abuse in allegations that surfaced from decades ago. Their parishes were restricted and assigned temporary administrators.

The individuals placed on leave include three local pastors. They are Monsignor James White of Mamaroneck’s St. Vito-Most Holy Trinity Parish, Reverend William Luciano of New Rochelle’s Blessed Sacrament Parish and Monsignor Edward Barry of Hawthorne’s Holy Rosary Parish. The fourth priest is Monsignor Edward Weber, the archdiocese’s director of priest personnel.

Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan sent letters to the three parishes to notify them about the accusations. He stressed the “leave is not a punishment,” and the pastors “continue to have the presumption of innocence.” The cardinal wrote that as per archdiocese protocols, independent investigators will examine the allegations. The Lay Review Board will then determine whether they are true and whether the priests can return to their ministries.

For Weber and White, the board must wait to review their cases until after civil litigation has concluded. The sexual abuse claims were filed under the Child Victim’s Act, which was implemented in August 2019. New York opened a one-year window allowing people to file child sexual abuse lawsuits regardless of how long ago the alleged incidents took place.

Child sexual abuse accusations are very serious. If you are facing them, you need a skilled defense strategy. Brill Legal Group has experience navigating such complex cases, and our lawyers understand the sensitive treatment they require.