RHODE ISLAND
GoLocalProv
Sunday, January 13, 2013
GoLocalProv News Staff
The Catholic Diocese of Providence today announced that a Rhode Island Priest has been removed from his parish due to allegations of sexual crimes.
Diocese of Providence reported that Father Barry Meehan has resigned as pastor of St. Timothy’s Parish, Warwick and “placed on administrative leave as a result of a credible allegation of sexual misconduct that allegedly took place more than 25 years ago.”
Father Meehan has denied the allegations.
The Diocese says, “Upon recently receiving the allegation, The diocese immediately reported the information to The Rhode Island State Police. Simultaneously, Diocesan officials launched an investigation that concluded the allegation was of a credible nature.”
“This unfortunate news is very distressing, however, The Diocese of Providence takes very seriously and will act upon credible allegations of abuse,” said The Most Rev. Thomas J. Tobin, Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Providence. “This is a very difficult time for the victim of the alleged abuse and his family, for Fr. Meehan and his family and friends and for the people of St. Timothy’s Parish. I would like to offer my prayers and support to all who are affected by this news.”
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