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	Father Robert Gibbons By Father Robert Gibbons Weekly Bulletin of St. Rita Parish September 24, 2006 The following text is taken from a memo sent by Father Robert Gibbons, Vicar General of the Diocese of St. Petersburg, to all pastors of the diocese: "You may recall that Father Ramon Hernandez voluntarily withdrew from priestly ministry on or about February 10, 2006, after an allegation of sexual misconduct. He steadfastly maintained that the allegation was false.The law enforcement authorities in Pasco County, Florida, conducted a criminal investigation and ultimately closed the case without proceeding against Fr. Hernandez. Thereupon the Diocese of St. Petersburg conducted its own investigation, using an outside investigator, in accord with our diocesan policies. The results of the investigation were presented to the Diocesan Review Board at a special meeting on August 29, 2006. Fr. Hernandez was given the opportunity to appear before the Review Board as well. The Review Board voted unanimously to recommend to Bishop Lynch that he find the allegation was not substantiated. Bishop Lynch accepted this recommendation. Bishop Lynch subsequently reinstated Fr. Hernandez to active priestly ministry, and the faculties of the Diocese were reissued to him on August 30, 2006. Fr. Hernandez is presently awaiting a new permanent assignment from Bishop Lynch..."
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