The allegations began in the late 1980s, but the victims claim that the
child molestation occurred nearly 20 years before. These types of accusations
are serious and can lead to a lot of consequences that can impact a person
both personally and professionally. The allegations mentioned above involved
a former priest and several boys who attended the church school.

One of the boys, now an adult, stepped forward with the allegations after
the priest’s niece accused the priest of molestation. This particular
case is just one of several involving Catholic churches that have been
filed in New Jersey as well in as neighboring states.

The priest had been working at the church and school for an unknown amount
of time when the boys say the sexual assault began. According to them,
it continued for several years. It wasn’t until 1989 that the church
first received complaints that the priest was involved in criminal conduct.
At that point, the priest was forced to leave his role in the church.
He was not allowed to return in a ministerial role but instead was given
an administrative position. He passed away two years ago.

It is unclear whether the priest had been criminally charged after the
boys came forward with the allegations of sexual abuse. In other similar
cases, criminal charges such as rape had been filed against the accused
individual.

For this priest, the accusations completely changed the course of his life.
He was unable to continue working in the profession of his choice, one
that no doubt required education and passion. Like him, others who are
accused of a crime face these types of challenges. Even without a conviction,
allegations can destroy a person’s reputation and relationships with
loved ones.

When faced with criminal charges, it is important to speak with someone
who can help figure out your next step. This can help protect your rights
and freedom.

Source: Reuters:
“Trenton diocese pays $1 million settlement in sexual abuse case,” Dave Warner, Aug. 17, 2011.