September 9, 2002 Statement of Donna M. Morrissey, Spokeswoman,
Archdiocese of Boston
The Archdiocese of Boston announces in accordance with its policy for
handling allegations of sexual misconduct with minors by members of the
clergy today placed Father Leonard E. Pelletier, Pastor of Saint Louis
de France Parish in Lowell, Massachusetts on administrative leave and
removed him from all assignments pending further review of allegations
made against him. This policy calls for a thorough investigation by the
Delegate's Office and our agreement with civil authorities calls for notification
to the Attorney General's office within forty-eight hours in cases such
as this.
The complaint made against Father Pelletier was recently reported for
the first time to the Archdiocese of Boston regarding allegations that
would have occurred over twenty years ago. Pastoral and counseling support
has been offered to both the person making the allegation and the accused
priest.
The first priority of the Archdiocese of Boston is the protection of
children. The rights of the alleged victim and the accused priest are
to be respected and any action taken in the course of an investigation
should not be construed as implication of guilt of the accused cleric.
Our obligation as representatives of the Church and as a community, legally
and morally, is to fully investigate all past allegations of abuse of
a minor. Until the resolution of the investigation by representatives
of the Church and by the proper authorities is complete, Father Pelletier
will receive a salary and medical benefits but he will not have permission
to perform any public ministry in the Church. If the allegations prove
to be groundless, efforts will be made to restore the priest's reputation.
Representatives of the Archdiocese of Boston have met with the parish
staff of St. Louis de France Parish and an announcement is planned to
be made to the parish community during this evening's Mass. Efforts are
at present being made to inform the people of the parish regarding this
situation. A Regional Bishop of the Archdiocese of Boston, a clinical
social worker, and other support staff will be present during the weekend
Masses to inform parishioners and provide assistance during this upsetting
time for the parish community.
Our prayers continue to be with victims and their families, the faithful
of the Archdiocese, the priests, deacons, men and women religious, and
all those who have been affected by instances of child abuse by members
of the clergy.
(Other press releases and statements)
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