Holy Name Teacher from Worcester Put on Leave after Prostitution Sting

Telegram & Gazette
September 15, 2012

http://www.telegram.com/article/20120915/NEWS/109159987/1116/raw_headlines

A physical education teacher and former football coach at Holy Name Central Catholic Junior/Senior High School has been placed on administrative leave after police arrested him during a prostitution sting last Saturday.

Philip O'Neil, 65, of Heroult Road, Worcester, was one of 16 people arrested. He is charged with paying for sexual conduct and was released on personal recognizance. His case was continued to Oct. 12.

“Obviously the administration doesn't want this to be distracting in the school community, so he's on leave,” said Raymond L. Delisle, a spokesman for the Worcester Diocese. Mr. Delisle did not know how long the leave would last but said it started Monday.

Police alleged in court records that Mr. O'Neil was in his car at Main and Claremont streets at 8:40 p.m. Saturday when he had a brief conversation with an undercover police officer and agreed to pay her $20 for sex.

Mr. O'Neil said yesterday that he did not want to comment on the charges.