MINNESOTA
Survivors Network of Those Abused by Priests
For immediate release: Tuesday, October 07, 2014
Statement by David Clohessy of St. Louis, Director of SNAP, the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests ( 314 566 9790, davidgclohessy@gmail.com )
A female Catholic teacher is being held on a charge of third degree criminal sexual conduct.
Mary Gilles was teaching at Pacelli Catholic School in Austin, MN when she was arrested yesterday.
Whether the alleged victim is a student or a minor, Winona Bishop John Quinn needs to quickly and aggressively help police and prosecutors purse this case. He should personally visit the school and nearby parishes begging anyone who may have seen, suspected or suffered Gilles’ crimes or misdeeds to law enforcement. He should insist that school staff write to current and former staff, students and parents, seeking more information.
We predict Quinn will have his public relations team issue a terse statement in the name of school officials. But that’s a cowardly and irresponsibly move. The protection of kids is the bishop’s job. He should step up and help here.
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