Former Local Priest on Trial in Massachusetts Today, KRGB, January 31, 2011

Former Local Priest on Trial in Massachusetts Today

KRGB
January 31, 2011

http://www.cbs6albany.com/news/today-1282405-former-accused.html

PITTSFIELD -- The trial of a former local priest accused of molesting two boys is scheduled to start today in Berkshire County Superior Court.

Gary Mercure is accused of abusing the boys in Massachusetts in 1986 and 1989.

"The charges in this case are profoundly troubling, the alleged conduct reprehensible," the diocese said in a statement. "We are deeply concerned about the well being and healing of the individuals who were allegedly abused as minors. Sexual abuse of a minor is a sin and a crime. When committed by a priest, it is a violation of a sacred trust that inflicts enormous harm on the abused person. Sexual abuse must never be ignored, condoned or tolerated."

He was a priest in the Albany Diocese at the time and was removed from that position permanently in 2008 after the allegations were made.

His lawyer says Mercure's DNA does not match the DNA introduced as evidence.

Mercure had served at Sacred Heart Parish in Troy, St. Mary's Parish in Glens Falls, Our Lady of the Annunciation Parish in Queensbury, St. Teresa of Avila Parish in Albany, Our Lady of the Assumption Parish in Latham and St. Mary's Parish in Clinton Heights, according to the diocese.