VOCM
December 15, 2011
http://www.vocm.com/newsarticle.asp?mn=2&id=19372&latest=1
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A retired Roman Catholic priest will return to court in February on sex charges. George Ansel Smith turned himself in to police yesterday and then appeared in court to be formally charged with 38 offences. His charges include gross indecency, indecent assault, sexual assault, and assault. A 16-month investigation by the RCMP revealed that the incidents happened over a 20-year period between 1969 and 1989. Smith was stationed in different communities on the west coast. Bishop Peter Joseph Hundt, of the Diocese of Corner Brook and Labrador, says they have cooperated fully with the authorities. He asks members of the public to come forward with any information about the case. Hundt says any form of misconduct by personnel of the Catholic Church is unacceptable.
He says the diocese has developed extensive procedures to foster a safe environment for their faith community. They have also developed a policy and procedure for replying to allegations of sexual misconduct. Hundt says their thoughts and prayers are with those affected by these events.
Smith was released from custody and will enter a plea in court on February 23rd.
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