By LeAnne Gendreau and Debra Bogstie
Hamilton Spectator
July 11, 2011
http://www.nbcconnecticut.com/news/local/Police-Investigate-Berlin-Priest-125351043.html
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| Rev. Michael Miller is hospitalized as police conduct an investigation into allegations he had inappropriate contact with a minor. |
A Berlin priest who has been hospitalized since July 4th is under investigation for allegations of inappropriate contact with a minor.
Berlin police received a complaint about Father Michael Miller, a pastor at St. Paul Church in Kensington, during the last week of June, Deputy Chief John Klett, of Berlin Police, said.
Lifestar helicopter transported Father Miller from the church to St. Francis Hospital on July 4, and he remains hospitalized, the Berlin Patch reports.
Information on why Father Miller was taken to the hospital have not been released.
"He remains under treatment at this time, and is not able to have visitors. Out of respect for his privacy and because the law requires that medical information be kept confidential, we cannot comment on his medical condition," the Archdiocese of Hartford said in statement.
Father Miller has not been arrested, police said, and details of the case have been ordered sealed.
The Archdiocese of Hartford and the Franciscan Friars are cooperating with the investigation, police said.
The Archdiocese made an announcement in church on Sunday.
"Sadly, we have been informed by the Berlin Police Department that there has been an allegation of inappropriate contact with a minor by Father Michael, and there is an ongoing police investigation. Please be assured that the Archdiocese of Hartford and the Franciscan Friars are cooperating fully with this investigation," the announcement said. "We are trying to be as open as possible with you, and we will provide additional information when we are able."
Father Miller is also a member of the South Kensington Fire Department and serves as a chaplain for all for fire stations in Berlin.
"He was there for us at many scenes where we had to deal with things not many can handle. We will be there for him and his family. We need to come together, get past this, and rebuild as a community,"
Brian Chapman, assistant chief of the South Kensington Fire Department, said.
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