NEW ORLEANS (LA)
WDSU [New Orleans]
May 30, 2024
By Aubry Killion
New Orleans attorney for former priest accused of rape withdraws from case
A retired New Orleans priest accused of rape and kidnapping has lost one of his key attorneys.
This comes as the public waits to see if Lawrence Hecker is competent to stand trial.
Attorney Bobby Hjortsberg issued the following statement when reached for comment, “I have withdrawn and I have no comment it’s a private matter between myself and the client.”
WDSU Investigates has followed this story closely.
It is unclear exactly why Hjortsberg is withdrawing from the case.
Hecker has two other attorneys. Prosecutors say the accusations date back to the 1970s.
Hecker was arrested last year. His trial continues to be delayed, but he is due back in court next month.
Stay with WDSU on this developing story.
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