Franciscan Charged with Sexual Abuse

Chicago Tribune
June 9, 1995

Cicero - A member of a Roman Catholic religious order has been charged with three counts of aggravated sexual abuse, according to Cook County prosecutors.

Ruben Soto, a 30-year-old Franciscan brother, was arrested on charges he fondled three youths who were in his care at St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Cicero.

According to a statement released by Cook County State's Atty. Jack O'Malley, the boys, ages 8, 12 and 17, are members of St. Anthony's, where Soto has been assigned since September 1994.

Another member of the Franciscan order reported Soto's alleged misconduct during the last several months to the Catholic Archdiocese of Chicago about two weeks ago, according to the statement. Church officials then notified law-enforcement officials.