Accused Stalker Priest Cleared to Stand Trial, by Jessica Fargen, Boston Herald, November 10, 2007

Accused Stalker Priest Cleared to Stand Trial

By Jessica Fargen
Boston Herald
November 10, 2007

http://news.bostonherald.com/news/regional/general/view.bg?articleid=1043743

The Bay State Catholic priest accused of stalking and harrassing talk show host Conan O'Brien was found mentally fit to stand trial yesterday, but his attorney and parents say the 46-year-old has a history of mental problems.

The Rev. David Ajemian leaves Manhattan Criminal Court after his arraignment yesterday.

Former Stoneham priest Rev. David Ajemian posted $2,500 cash bail for charges he sent O'Brien a series of bizarre and ranting notes and postcards this year, referring to himself as O'Brien's "priest stalker," and demanding a "public confession."

During a hearing in Manhattan Criminal Court yesterday, Ajemian was found fit to stand trial following a court-ordered psychiatric evaluation. His parents were on hand to free him and bring him back home to Massachusetts, they told the press throng outside court.

A Newton priest representing the Archdiocese of Boston was also in court, saying he was asked to attend by Boston Cardinal Sean P. O'Malley. "The cardinal's concern is for everyone, including the O'Briens," said Msgr. Dennis Sheehan.

Attorney Eric Seiff told the judge Ajemian takes medication for his psychological problems and has been in treatment for a year.

His 14-month fixation with O'Brien culminated Nov. 2, when he was arrested trying to get into a taping of the "Late Show With Conan O'Brien," authorities said.

Ajemian allegedly signed one letter "Padre 009," which appears to be his screen name on an online O'Brien fan message board hosted by NBC. Yesterday, NBC removed Padre 009's posts, during which the writer fantasizes about seeing the O'Brien's show taped live.

NBC spokesman Marc Liepis said the network has no comment.

Ajemian, who graduated from Milton Academy in 1979 and Harvard in 1983, was ordained as a priest in 2001. Until June, Ajemian was assigned to St. Patrick's Church in Stoneham. This week, he was placed on leave.