KCRA
December 1, 2011
http://www.kcra.com/r/29899584/detail.html
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A Redding priest is being held at the Sacramento County Jail, facing two child molestation charges, said the head of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Sacramento.
Father Uriel Ojeda, 32, will face counts on lewd and lascivious acts with a minor. The alleged victim was 14 years old at the time of the incident, Bishop Jaime Soto said, and is now 16.
Soto discussed Ojeda's arrest at a news conference Thursday, adding that he admired the courage of those who came forward.
Additionally, he encourages anyone with information or who might be another victim to inform authorities.
Announcements reiterating that message will be made in the parishes where Ojeda served, in the Redding and Woodland areas.
"Protecting young people remains our number one priority," Soto said.
The allegations stem from a report made to the diocese on Tuesday, Soto said. The diocese acted immediately, contacting Child Protective Services and the Sacramento Police Department.
"We have acted to respond to the family and also to ensure that no other cases of abuse take place in the diocese," Soto said.
The bishop has reached out and said the family is in "great pain."
The investigation is ongoing.
The diocese is cooperating fully with the district attorney's office.
Ojeda turned himself in to Sacramento police Wednesday night, Soto said. His arraignment is set for Friday.
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