Criminal Sex Case of Priest Put Off: His Lawyer to Challenge Evidence
By Stephanie Dickrell
A lawyer representing the Rev. Anthony Oelrich is arguing evidence gathered ahead of a criminal sexual conduct charge is inadmissible at trial. Oelrich, 51, was charged with criminal sexual conduct in the third degree in February. Oelrich was scheduled to have a hearing reviewing the evidence to be used at trial this week. Paul Engh, his lawyer, filed several motions challenging various evidence in the trial and the way it was gathered. The hearing was moved to May 31 to allow counsel and witnesses time to prepare, said Joshua Kannegieter. Kannegieter is prosecuting the case for the Stearns County Attorney's Office. He said in general, the motions challenge a search warrant, Oelrich's arrest and discussions about evidence that must be available to both sides. Kannegieter refused to elaborate, nor would he comment on possible outcomes of the hearing. "I will not comment on the case, because it's active at the moment," he said. Calls to Engh for comment were not returned. According to court documents, motions filed by Engh argue: For more evidence about the background of and statements made by the woman making the report, including medical and therapy records. To exclude evidence given by other women who provided other evidence of Oelrich's inappropriate sexual behavior. The search and seizure of Oelrich's medical and psychological records was improper. Oelrich's arrest was done improperly. Statements Oelrich made should be suppressed because he was not properly informed of his Miranda rights. Oelrich is accused of having sexual intercourse with the adult woman, female victim, asking the woman to perform sexual acts on him and exposing himself to the her. The woman told investigators their encounters often ended with a priestly blessing or a prayer. The state statute makes it a crime for a member of clergy to engage in a sexual relationship with someone they are counseling spiritually or religiously. Oelrich was removed as priest of Christ Church Newman Center near St. Cloud State University after his arrest in February. Bishop Donald Kettler also suspended Oelrich's priestly faculties, meaning he cannot function or present himself as a priest. A church representative said Oelrich is responsible for paying his own legal fees. Oelrich is staying at a residence in St. Cloud owned by the diocese while the judicial process proceeds. The diocese continues to provide for Oelrich's basic needs. Oelrich worked at the Newman Center since 2007 and was previously listed as the director of continuing education for clergy in the St. Cloud Diocese. Oelrich is a Milaca native and has served in the diocese since his ordination in 1992. He has served at Sacred Heart Parish in Sauk Rapids and the Cathedral of St. Mary in St. Cloud. He also served in parishes in Holdingford, Opole, St. Anna, St. Wendel, Pearl Lake and Rockville. An earlier version of this story incorrectly stated the date of Oelrich's next hearing. It is May 31. Contact: sdickrell@stcloudtimes.com
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