BUFFALO (NY)
WGRZ
February 8, 2020
Father Riter led St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Roman Catholic Church in Dunkirk. The Diocese of Buffalo said he died ‘after a brief illness.’
The Rev. Dennis Riter, who was accused of sexual abuse before being cleared and reinstated by the Diocese of Buffalo, has died.
The Diocese said through a statement on Saturday night that he died “after a brief illness.”
Father Riter led St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Roman Catholic Church in Dunkirk, which confirmed his death on its website.
“We sadly announce that Father Dennis Riter passed away Saturday afternoon, February 8, 2020. Please keep his family in your prayers during this most difficult time,” the message read.
Father Riter was placed on administrative leave in March of 2018 during the investigation before eventually being reinstated months later, in late June.
Riter was originally accused by at least two men who said the priest abused them in Buffalo while Riter was serving at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church.
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