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  Father Murd Trial

WTVG
June 13, 2008

http://abclocal.go.com/wtvg/story?section=news/local&id=6204485

WTVG -- A judge found catholic priest Father Frank Murd not guilty of sexual imposition today.

A judge found catholic priest Father Frank Murd not guilty of sexual imposition today. The diocese removed Murd from Saint joseph's in Maumee in April. That's when Murd was first accused of improperly fondling another man in a hot tub.

Lawyers for both sides agree Father Frank Murd fondled another man in a JCC hottub. Prosecutors could not convince judge James Jensen that the accuser clearly objected to Murd's actions. "We disagree with the judge's decision," says Mike Loisel of the Lucas County Prosecutor's office.

The prosecution believes Murd knew he offended the alleged victim. "We think he knew it was because he got out of the hot tub and apologized that minute to the victim," says Loisel.

The judge harped more on the alleged victim's actions. "He said nothing, not stop it, he did nothing," says Judge James Jensen. The defense argued the accuser never complained during the 45 second act. Meanwhile, the prosecution thinks Murd went to the JCC that March night for one reason, "He went into the JCC locker room about 5:30 and never left until about 10:00. You can be the judge."

Today Father Frank Murd left a free man. He did not answer any questions. His lawyer told reporters to find ratings somewhere else.

The Toledo diocese said Father Murd will continue his reassignment at a residential treatment facility. At the moment, Murd will not be assigned to a parish. Saint Joseph's in Maumee already has a new priest.

 
 

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