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	Worcester Priest Accused of Rape Is Freed NECN February 5, 2011 http://www.necn.com/02/04/11/Worcester-Priest-accused-of-rape-is-free/landing_newengland.html?blockID=404398&feedID=4206 [with video] A stay away order is the condition of release for a Worcester priest accused of raping and beating a woman. Charles Abdelahad former pastor of Saint George Orthodox Cathedral in Worcester stood before a judge Friday morning facing charges of rape and multiple counts of assault and battery. According to court records Abdelahad allegedly attacked a 43-year-old female several times between 2007 to 2009. Documents claim the priest bit, kicked punched and struck the alleged victim with a religious icon. Abdelahad's lawyer entered a plea of not guilty on his behalf. The alleged victim and family members were present in the court room but did not want to speak with members of the media. A group of parishioners gathered in support of their priest. Many say they were shocked to hear about the allegations. Abdelahad been a priest at Saint George Orthodox Cathedral for more than 20 years. He left the parish in November. His lawyer says his decision leave followed these allegations of abuse.
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