St. Cloud Diocese, Catholic Priest Sued Following Sexual Misconduct Allegations

SC Times
April 1, 2019

https://www.sctimes.com/story/news/local/2019/04/01/catholic-church-priest-sexual-abuse-misconduct-lawsuit-st-cloud-minnesota/3331905002/

The Diocese of St. Cloud is among the defendants in a civil lawsuit accusing a Catholic priest of sexual misconduct with a former female pastoral assistant, according to a civil lawsuit filed recently in Stearns County District Court.

The lawsuit was filed March 21 by Theodosia Orlando, 32, who was a pastoral associate employed by the diocese from August to January, according to the complaint. Orlando claims she was subjected to "unwelcome, offensive and ongoing verbal and physical sexual harassment" by her supervisor, the Rev. Joseph Backowski.

Backowski, 36, is pastor of St. Mary of the Presentation Church in Breckenridge and St. Thomas Aquinas Church in Kent. According to a statement from the diocese on Friday, Backowski has been on administrative leave since early January because of "personal health concerns."

"At that time, Father Backowski voluntarily began participating in an evaluation and treatment program to address these issues. He will conclude his participation in this program in the next month," the diocese statement said. "Following the conclusion of the treatment program, Bishop Donald Kettler will consult the Diocesan Review Board and determine the suitability of Father Backowski’s return to ministry."

The complaint said Orlando raised concerns about Backowski's behavior to other priests starting in early October, as well as Vicar General Robert E. Rolfes, who is named as a defendant in the lawsuit.

In the diocese's statement, Kettler offered his support and prayers for everyone affected by this situation.

This is a developing story. Check back for more updates.