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	New Allegations Regarding Convicted Former Priest By Paul Merrill Fox 23 February 14, 2011 http://www.fox23news.com/news/local/story/New-allegations-regarding-convicted-former-priest/ZnSt6P_BSUyTy3KM9JXv6Q.cspx [with video] There are new details in the case against convicted former priest Gary Mercure. A Berkshire County jury convicted Mercure on sexual assault charges last Thursday. On Monday, advocates for alleged sexual abuse victims said that they have evidence that the Roman Catholic Diocese of Albany had been warned about Mercure's behavior more than one decade ago but let Mercure remain in the ministry. Mike Flynn says he was abused by Mercure although he never testified in the former priest's trial. While standing in front of the Albany Diocese headquarters, Flynn told reporters, "They wait and they react as soon as the media outs these type of secrets that they're trying to cover up and keep out of the media." Diocesan spokesman Kenneth Goldfarb responded, in part, "In 2000, the Diocese investigated a third party report of possible misconduct by Mercure. When the Diocese sought additional information, and followed up with the person who made the original report, it was advised that the individual who had expressed the concern was not willing to follow through with the complaint. The Diocese called in Mercure and questioned him. He denied the allegation." Mercure is scheduled to be sentenced on Wednesday. He could spend the rest of his life in prison. The Albany Diocese removed Mercure from the ministry in 2008. Email: paulmerrill@fox23news.com
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