PHILADELPHIA (PA)
WTVR

(CNN) — The first Roman Catholic priest in the United States imprisoned for covering up the crimes of offending priests was ordered to be released Thursday after an appeals court reversed his conviction.

Monsignor William Lynn has been in prison since he was convicted in July 2012. He was convicted of one count of child endangerment and sentenced to three to six years.

Attorney Thomas Bergstrom said Lynn could be released as soon as Friday, depending on paperwork.

Philadelphia District Attorney Seth Williams said his office likely will appeal the ruling.