BURBANK (IL)
Chicago Sun-Times
May 23, 2006
BY ASSOCIATED PRESS
A suburban priest who had planned to celebrate his 25th anniversary in the ministry last week has voluntarily stepped down amid allegations of decades-old sexual misconduct.
The allegations involve abuse of minors more than 20 years ago and an investigation has just begun, the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Chicago confirmed Tuesday.
The Rev. Robert Stepek has "has voluntarily and temporarily absented himself" from St. Albert the Great Parish in Burbank, archdiocese spokesman Jim Dwyer said. More than one allegation has been reported, Dwyer said, but he would not specify how many.
"The action is not a judgment nor is it a removal from ministry," Dwyer said. "Father Stepek has agreed to live in a private setting away from the parish until these allegations are resolved."