WISCONSIN
Press-Gazette

A retired priest has been accused of abusing a minor in the 1970s, the Diocese of Green Bay announced Saturday.

The Rev. Justin N. Werner denies the allegation, the diocese said in a statement.

The statement reads:

In following the Policies of Appropriate Conduct of the Diocese, Father Werner, a senior (retired) priest, has been temporarily restricted from performing any public ministry pending the outcome of a complete review of these matters, which includes an investigation by an independent professional investigator. The abuse is alleged to have happened at St. Edward Parish in Mackville in the 1970s. The Diocese has notified civil authorities of the allegation following its mandatory reporting policy.

The Diocese is assisting both the person bringing the allegation and Father Werner. The Diocese asks for prayers for both of them, and for all affected.