By Jeffrey Wolf
9 News
August 9, 2007
http://www.9news.com/news/local/article.aspx?storyid=75195
Denver – The Archdiocese of Denver released a statement regarding a 53-year-old priest who was caught jogging naked at night on a high school running track.
The Reverend Robert Whipkey told Frederick Police officers he had been running naked at a high school track and did not think anyone would be around at that time of day.
 |
Police say Whipkey faces an indecent exposure charge.
The Archdiocese of Denver says Whipkey is on administrative leave from his three parish assignments for an undetermined period of time.
"Until this matter arose, the Archdiocese had received no complaints of any kind about Father Whipkey's personal conduct for the past eight years. Over eight years ago, while Father Whipkey was pastor of St. Anthony's Parish in Sterling, the Archdiocese did respond to concerns of inappropriate personal behavior by Father Whipkey," said the statement from the Archdiocese.
 |
"When the Archdiocese first learned of this matter eight years ago, the Archdiocese promptly brought the issue to the attention of the appropriate local authorities. No charges of any kind were made by the authorities. In addition, the Archdiocese of Denver convened its Conduct Response Team, which traveled to Sterling to investigate the matter and to visit with those who had raised concerns about Father Whipkey."
"Father Whipkey's conduct eight years ago did not involve any physical or sexual contact with another individual. Father Whipkey immediately entered therapy regarding his personal issues and his therapy lasted several years. As part of that treatment, independent medical health professionals evaluated Fr. Whipkey; these health care professionals did not conclude he was a danger to others or should be removed from ministry, which was central in the Archdiocese's decision at that time."
"The Archdiocese has and continues to work to maintain a safe environment for all."
Prosecutors say Whipkey would have to register as a sex offender if convicted of indecent exposure.
Any original material on these pages is copyright © BishopAccountability.org 2004. Reproduce freely with attribution.