By Katie Brace
WPTV
May 21, 2009
http://www.wptv.com/news/local/story/father-skehan-delray-beach-palm-beach-diocese/Wj7pYcm2H0WrnGGmDT_tHw.cspx
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WEST PALM BEACH, FL –- A judge ruled Father John Skehan will stay in prison. Skehan’s attorney, Jim Eisenberg, ideally wanted to get his client house arrest or at the very least a spot in the Palm Beach County Jail.
He argued his client is not receiving adequate care for his medical conditions.
The courtroom was packed with Father Skehan’s supporters. Tamera English says, "The man who has helped the community and so many people in life is being punished in such a severe way." Dennis Demes says, "I think price has been paid. I don't know what purpose incarceration is going to serve for 82 year old man in his state."
May First, Father Skehan began serving a 14 month prison sentence. Earlier this year, he pleaded guilty to grand theft for stealing from St. Vincent Ferrer parish in Delray Beach.
He was accused of taking more than 370-thousand dollars over forty years. Father Skehan returned 760-thousand dollars to the diocese.
Investigators say Skehan stole hundreds of thousands of dollars and spent it on girlfriends, trips and bought two homes--one in Florida and one in Ireland.
Skehan’s attorney says he has not received the necessary care in the Department of Corrections. His doctors testified the D.O.C has not been responsive to their requests for treatment. Skehan has been held in a minimum security facility in Miami and in Martin County. His doctors say he suffers from prostate cancer, diabetes, and is depressed and suicidal.
The state argued mental health issues are not uncommon after someone is sentenced or incarcerated. They also brought up the point the doctor testifying on Skehan’s behalf is also a long-time friend.
Judge Colbath said Skehan’s defense did not meet the burden of proof that he is not receiving adequate care. He said he would write a letter requesting the Department of Corrections to pay more attention to Skehan’s condition.
Skehan’s supporters had hoped to impact the judge’s decision. They say Skehan has done so much for them, the church and the community, and it is unfair he is behind bars.
The rows of parishioners waved and cried as Father Skehan was led away.
Email: kbrace@wptv.com
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