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  Priest Got into Bed with Me, Boy Claims

By Anna Cox
IOL
March 6, 2008

http://www.iol.co.za/index.php?set_id=1&click_id=15&art_id=vn20080306053535614C461566

A Joburg Catholic priest is to be charged with indecent assault.

The priest allegedly climbed into bed with some youngsters wearing only boxer shorts during a church camp last month.

The parent of a 9-year-old said the priest lay in bed with the boy and snuggled up to him. The boy managed to free himself with the help of some classmates. The priest then allegedly got into bed with another boy.

The father said that when he confronted the priest the next day, he denied everything.

"He would not look me in the eye and his story was not consistent. The next day he asked if he could come to my house. He was only interested in talking about how this could affect his career if I told everybody. There was no word about the children," he said.

The vicar-general of the diocese said at this stage the accusations were only allegations.

"While the church views the allegations in a very serious light, I have met with the priest, who denies any improper conduct.

"He said he went to quieten the boys, who were making a noise, at 12.30am.

"The church is dealing with the matter and investigating.

"We believe he acted naively and don't think the police will be able to lay any improper conduct at his doorstep," he said.

 
 

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