Diocese Continues Investigation into Priest Accused of Misconduct

By Casey Vaughn
Fox Carolina
April 24, 2013

http://www.foxcarolina.com/story/22063479/priest-remains-on-leave-after-report-that-victim-not-pursuing-charges

GREENWOOD, SC (FOX Carolina) -

A man who told Greenwood County deputies he was touched by a priest 15 years ago has decided not to pursue charges, according to reports.

The Index-Journal reported Tuesday that the victim told deputies he did not want to further pursue the investigation.

The allegations against Father Hayden Vaverek made news in early March when the Catholic Diocese of Charleston released a statement saying he had been put on administrative leave after someone reported the misconduct.

The diocese reported that the misconduct occurred while Vaverek was pastor at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Greenwood, but "no parishioners of that parish were involved in the reported allegation." Diocesan officials said the sexual misconduct involved a minor and happened more than 15 years ago.

On Tuesday, the Diocese said Vaverek's still on leave until the Diocese completes its investigation. They said once their investigation is complete, policy requires the Sexual Abuse Advisory Board meet to assess the allegation's credibility.

Vaverek served at a number of parishes and schools, including Greenwood, Simpsonville, Anderson and Greenville.