BishopAccountability.org
	Archdiocese of Philadelphia Places Two Retired Priests on Administrative Leave Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Philadelphia March 30, 2011 http://archphila.org/press%20releases/pr001773.htm Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, today announced that he has placed two retired priests on administrative leave effective immediately. This action is a result of the continuing dialogue with the Philadelphia District Attorney's Office following the Grand Jury Report issued February 10, 2011. In its ongoing response to concerns raised by the District Attorney's Office, the Archdiocese conducted an initial review which resulted in the administrative leave of the two priests pending a more thorough, independent investigation. Consistent with Cardinal Rigali's previous statement, these steps are interim measures and are not in any way final determinations or judgments. Cardinal Rigali's actions today and on March 8th when he placed 21 priests on administrative leave were based upon recommendations by Gina Maisto Smith, a former child abuse prosecutor with the Philadelphia District Attorney's Office for nearly two decades. As previously announced Mrs. Smith, a partner at the law firm of Ballard Spahr, is conducting an initial review of cases of concern. The cases of administrative leave will be more fully investigated by Mrs. Smith and a team of experts including a pediatrician with expertise in the field of child abuse, a forensic psychiatrist and psychologist, an expert from the child advocacy community and other experts. Both of the priests placed on administrative leave today are retired and live in private residences. One retired in 2005 and due to health reasons is not currently serving in any public ministry. The other priest retired in 2006 and has assisted at parishes in another diocese. The Bishop of the Diocese where he resides has been informed. Contact Donna M. Farrell Director of Communications 215-587-3747
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