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  N.Va. Priest Accused of Sexual Misconduct

Richmond Times Dispatch (Virginia)
May 11, 2006

ANNANDALE - A Northern Virginia priest has been placed on leave after allegations he engaged in inappropriate sexual conduct with two girls more than 25 years ago, church officials said yesterday.

The Diocese of Arlington was investigating claims against the Rev. Tran Dinh Nhi of St. Ambrose Church in Annandale stemming from 1975 to 1980, when the girls were between the ages of 13 and 17.

One allegation was made by a woman after she attended a program sponsored by the diocese on recognizing and reporting child abuse. In an interview with the first woman, the diocese learned the name of a possible second victim, who was immediately contacted.

After a preliminary review of the allegations Monday, the diocese's Review Board advised Bishop Paul S. Loverde that the allegations appeared to be credible. The diocese is cooperating with authorities and continues to look for any additional victims, spokesman Soren Johnson said.

Nhi, 61, has denied any wrongdoing.

At the time of the alleged wrongdoing, Nhi served at the St. Rita and St. Lawrence parishes in Alexandria and the St. Charles Borromeo parish in Arlington County. Nhi has been in Annandale since last year.

 
 

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