Retired Des Moines priest receives third accusation of alleged sexual abuse of a minor

DES MOINES (IA)
Des Moines Register

September 28, 2018

By Alex Ivanisevic

The Diocese of Des Moines has heard a third allegation of decades-old sexual abuse of a minor by the same priest.

The complaint — received Sept. 6 — was made against the Rev. Leonard Kenkel, according to a news release from the diocese. Bishop Richard Pates immediately referred the allegation to local law enforcement, the diocese said. Pates has apologized to the victim, who asked for anonymity.

Two allegations of decades-old abuse have previously been made in 2003 and 2005 against Kenkel. The Allegation Review Committee — comprising a chief of police, a judge, a lawyer, a counselor, a retired teacher, a priest and a deacon — determined in both cases there was not strong enough evidence to conclude that sexual abuse happened, but recommended that Kenkel meet with a professional, which he did, to help him better understand personal space and the recognition of appropriate boundaries for physical contact.

“It has always been a top priority for me that we address all allegations of sexual abuse with utmost transparency, consistency and accountability outlined by the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People,” Pates said in the news release. “The diocese continues to work diligently to ensure a safe environment for children and all vulnerable individuals in our churches and schools.”

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