Owensboro Diocese Recommends Permanent Suspension for Priest Accused of Sexual Misconduct

By Lisa Autry
WKU Radio
May 2, 2019

https://www.wkyufm.org/post/owensboro-diocese-recommends-permanent-suspension-priest-accused-sexual-misconduct#stream/0

The Catholic Diocese of Owensboro is recommending that a priest on temporary suspension be removed from public ministry permanently.

Father Joseph Bradley was placed on temporary suspension on March 1 after the Diocesan Review Board determined that an allegation of sexual abuse of a minor had been found credible. On March 4, a second individual came forward with a similar complaint.

The allegations dated back to the early 1980s when Bradley was principal of Owensboro Catholic High School.

On April 25, the Diocesan Review Board recommended the allegations be deemed substantiated.

“I have accepted the counsel of the Diocesan Review Board that they believe these allegations have been substantiated,” said Bishop William Medley in a news release.

Bishop Medley says he will submit a report to the Vatican recommending that Fr. Bradley be permanently removed from public ministry. While the priest maintains his innocence, the Vatican will make the final decision.

Fr. Bradley was serving as volunteer chaplain at Owensboro Catholic High School at the time of his suspension. Bishop Medley says the allegations have been reported to the local Commonwealth's Attorney.

The Owensboro Diocese released a list last month of priests with credible accusations against them for sex abuse of children. Dioceses nation ide have made similar efforts to bring more accountability and transparency to the Catholic church.