ALEXANDRIA (LA)
The Shreveport Times
January 20, 2006
Louisiana Gannett News
ALEXANDRIA --- Monsignor Frederick J. Lyons has been suspended from his priestly duties following allegations of sexual misconduct with a minor, Bishop Ronald P. Herzog of the Diocese of Alexandria said Thursday in a prepared statement.
The statement contains no specifics about the allegations, including when, where or what type of sexual misconduct allegedly took place. Lyons is a retired priest, so any alleged incident could have taken place years ago.
Herzog was unavailable for comment Thursday. However, in his statement, he says, "The prohibition came after accusations were made to the Permanent Review Board of the Diocese of Alexandria. This board evaluates all allegations of clerical sexual misconduct involving minors."
The diocese has a policy for the protection of minors that can be read online by going to www.diocesealex.org and clicking on "Safe Environment." The Web site also contains instructions on how to file a complaint.