Earlier Abuse Claims to Be Allowed at Priest Trial

York Dispatch
February 6, 2012

http://www.yorkdispatch.com/penn/ci_19904255

The judge overseeing a child sex-abuse case involving three Roman Catholic priests in Philadelphia will allow prosecutors to reference previous molestation claims against other clergy at trial.

Common Pleas Judge M. Teresa Sarmina ruled Monday that the abuse allegations are relevant to the upcoming trial of Monsignor William Lynn.

Lynn is a high-ranking church official charged with shuffling predator priests to unwitting parishes.

Prosecutors want to show a pattern of behavior in how Lynn handled the careers of priests credibly accused of molestation.

The defense wants to limit evidence to Lynn's handling of the priest and ex-priest on trial with him. The Rev. James Brennan and defrocked priest Edward Avery are charged with rape.

All three defendants have denied the charges.