Priest on Leave in Wake of Abuse Allegation

WOWT
July 3, 2014

http://www.wowt.com/home/headlines/Priest-on-Leave-in-Wake-of-Abuse-Allegation-265634431.html

A priest who used to work in the metro area is now on administrative leave from his current duties in the wake of a sexual abuse allegation.

The Diocese of Des Moines says they believe a report of sexual abuse involving Father Howard Fitzgerald is credible. The allegation dates back decades.

They have notified local law enforcement.

During the investigation Father Fitzgerald was asked to step aside from his parish responsibilities at St. Thomas Aquinas Parish in Indianola and Immaculate Conception Parish in St. Marys and at Simpson College.

In the past, Fitzgerald worked in Council Bluffs, Harlan and, just three years ago, he was working in Glenwood.