February 06, 2006

Archdiocese sends letter to parishioners detailing abuse allegations

CHICAGO (IL)
WQAD

CHICAGO The Archdiocese of Chicago is notifying parishioners about the latest allegations leveled at a priest who's been removed from the ministry amid allegations of sexual abuse.

The letter explains why the Reverend Joseph Bennett was withdrawn Tuesday as pastor of Holy Ghost Parish in South Holland. It is signed by the Auxiliary Bishop of Chicago, the Reverend Joseph Perry.

Perry says the archdiocese is investigating allegations that Bennett engaged in sexual misconduct with minors, which allegedly occurred more than 35 years ago while Bennett was an assistant pastor at St. John de la Salle Parish in Chicago.

Bennett has not been charged with a crime. Perry says Bennett is living in a monitored, private setting.

Posted by kshaw at February 6, 2006 07:51 AM