Priest on Leave after Sex Abuse Claims

WGN News Desk
August 30, 2012

http://www.wgntv.com/news/wgntv-sex-abuse-claims-in-church-retired-priest-on-leave-20120829,0,2164780.story

A retired priest from Naperville has been placed on leave following an accusation of sexually abusing a minor more than 25 years ago, according to the Diocese of Joliet.

Rev. James Nowak, 75, formerly of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Naperville, will not be allowed to say a public Mass or administer sacraments while on administrative leave.

In a statement, diocese spokesman Doug Delaney said, “The review committee discussed it and recommended to the bishop it was credible, so he’s going to have it investigated further by church authorities.”

Delaney said the alleged sexual abuse did not occur while Nowak was at the Naperville church.