Charges against Pennsylvania Priest Reinstated in Sexual Assault Case

By Bridgette P. Lavictoire
Lez Get Real
October 2, 2012

http://lezgetreal.com/2012/10/charges-against-pennsylvania-priest-reinstated-in-sexual-assault-case/


Pennsylvania Common Pleas Judge Paula Patrick ordered serious charges of deviate sexual intercourse, sexual assault and statutory sexual assault against Father Andrew McCormick reinstated. The charges were initially dismissed by Municipal Judge Karen Y. Simons after a preliminary hearing back in August. The now 24-year-old alleged victim was an altar boy of ten when McCormick allegedly tried to force him to have oral intercourse.

McCormick was, at that hearing, held for trial on misdemeanor charges of indecent assault, corrupting the morals of a minor and endangering the welfare of a child.

Assistant District Attorney Jack O'Neill praised the man who came forward over the alleged assault, and stated that "This was an extremely clear law. The judge looked at the law, looked at the testimony and applied the law. Most of all, we're just grateful the victim was courageous to come forward. Now, this case is moving forward as it should."

William J. Brennan, McCormick's lawyer, stated that the fact that the DA's office had to have a secondary preliminary hearing was indicative that they would have trouble proving their case in trial and said "If the commonwealth is on the ropes in round one, perhaps they should reconsider this prosecution."

McCormick is free on bail, but has been suspended from the priesthood ahead of the trial.