CANADA
Winnipeg Free Press
Orthodox Archbishop Seraphim Storheim has taken the witness stand in his own defence to deny allegations he molested two young brothers.
Storheim, 67, began testifying Thursday morning. He has pleaded not guilty to sexually assaulting the boys 28 years ago in Winnipeg. The allegations were only recently reported to police, resulting in criminal charges.
“I felt compassion for this particular family. So I paid more attention to that family, trying to support and encourage them,” Storheim said in direct examination from his lawyer, Jeff Gindin.
He admits talking to the 11-year-old boys about puberty and body development, but denies their claims he fondled them and repeatedly exposed himself.
“If there’s any touching it was certainly by accident,” said Storheim.
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