Despite Questionable Spending, Astoria Priest Wont Be Prosecuted, KATU, April 7, 2010

Despite Questionable Spending, Astoria Priest Won't Be Prosecuted

KATU
April 7, 2010

http://www.katu.com/news/local/90145082.html

The Star of the Sea School in Astoria, Ore.

ASTORIA, Ore. – Oregon investigators are saying there is "insufficient evidence to justify any criminal action" in a year-old case against an Astoria priest accused of mishandling parish-school funds.

The small parochial school is run by the Roman Catholic church and has a number of well-known alumni, including Astoria's mayor.

The priest, Ted Prentice, came under scrutiny for his handling of finances at the St. Mary, Star of the Sea School in Astoria after the parish was believed to be in danger of closing. The Oregon Department of Justice made the above determination this week, a move that in part helps to clear the priest's name.

The Archdiocese of Portland was investigating the allegations in January 2009. At the time, school officials said the Star of the Sea was "bordering on insolvency" and may have to close.

The archdiocese provided a $20,000 grant to keep the school open. Prentice was transferred, and eventually resigned, according to reports in The Daily Astorian Wednesday.