Priest in Cincinnati-based Order Accused of Sexual Misconduct, Relieved of Ministerial Duties

The Republic
February 15, 2012

http://www.therepublic.com/view/story/7eaa040144a242c69ef58591a61d976a/OH--Priest-Abuse/

CINCINNATI — A Cincinnati-based Roman Catholic order says it has launched an investigation into sexual misconduct alleged against one of its priests.

Glenmary Home Missioners says it relieved the Rev. Bob Poandl (poh-AHN'-duhl) of ministerial duties in three Georgia communities and asked him to return to the Glenmary residence in Cincinnati.

Glenmary says the 70-year-old Poandl denies the allegation, which was made anonymously about an event alleged to have happened nearly 30 years ago.

Glenmary said Wednesday it has notified authorities in Georgia and bishops in dioceses involved in the investigation, including the Diocese of Savannah.

Glenmary said the 70-year-old Poandl denies the allegation, which was made anonymously about an event alleged to have happened nearly 30 years ago.

In 2010, a West Virginia judge dismissed charges against Poandl that accused him of sexually abusing a 10-year-old boy while the two visited a West Virginia church in 1991.