HAWAII
Honolulu Star-Bulletin
By Mary Adamski
madamski@starbulletin.com
A Maui man has been removed from the position of administrator of St. Ann Church in Waihee while officials investigate an allegation that he sexually abused a minor.
"The diocese has been in contact with the police, who confirm they are investigating," said Patrick Downes, spokesman for the Honolulu diocese. He said the alleged abuse occurred recently but declined to give further information.
The man, who is a deacon, was put on administrative leave June 22. Besides being removed from the paid managerial position that he held for six years, he is not allowed to perform any kind of public ministry, Downes said.
The Rev. Gary Secor, who heads the diocesan Standing Committee on Sexual Misconduct, went to Maui last weekend to discuss the situation with parishioners in the small parish outside of Wailuku.
He told them that the former administrator has declined to speak to diocese officials about the matter, Downes said.