KMBC
August 24, 2011
http://www.kmbc.com/news/28967071/detail.html
 |
| Bishop Robert Finn holds a news conference to discuss the arrest of the Rev. Shawn Ratigan on suspicion of child pornography possession last week. KMBC 9's Peggy Breit reports. |
KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- KMBC 9 News has learned that a Jackson County grand jury has subpoenaed Bishop Robert Finn in connection with the church's handling of child sex allegations against priests.
Michael Mahoney reported that while Finn has been subpoenaed, it is not known when or even if he will actually appear.
He said Finn has been relieved of the subpoena, although attorneys asked about the case had differing opinions on what it could mean.
The grand jury investigation could go in multiple directions, Mahoney said. He said the grand jurors could be looking into Shawn Ratigan's arrest on child pornography charges, although the case originated in Clay County. Mahoney said it could also be focusing on the church and its official response to the Ratigan case or even the state's child abuse reporting laws.
Finn's counsel said only that "Bishop Finn, the Kansas City Diocese and its employees are cooperating with law enforcement in the Shawn Ratigan investigation."
Barbara Dorris of the Survivors Network for those Abused by Priests criticized Finn for not honoring a 2008 pledge to promptly report problems to state authorities.
"He has exhausted his good name," she said. "He only does what he has to do when pushed by the media or by the victims."
The Jackson County Prosecutor's Office declined comment on the story, Mahoney said.
Any original material on these pages is copyright © BishopAccountability.org 2004. Reproduce freely with attribution.