A Statement Regarding Rev. Leo Charles Koppala

By John M. Quinn
Roman Catholic Diocese of Winona
June 11, 2013

http://www.dow.org/News/tabid/75/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/131/STATEMENT-REGARDING-REV-LEO-CHARLES-KOPPALA-MISCONDUCT-CHARGES.aspx

WINONA, MN – June 10, 2013 - Bishop John Quinn placed Rev. Leo Charles Koppala, a priest of the Nellore Diocese in South India, on administrative leave in accordance with the diocesan policy for the protection of minors.  Rev. Koppala has been charged with Criminal Sexual Conduct in the Second Degree involving a minor.   

While on administrative leave, he is not permitted to exercise his public ministry or live on any parish property in the Diocese of Winona pending the outcome of the investigation.

A representative of the Diocese of Winona indicated that no other allegation of this nature involving Rev. Koppala has been received by the Diocese.

The Diocese of Winona is committed to the protection of children and the safe environment of our parishes and schools. The Diocese of Winona has fully adopted the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People (“the Charter”), as promulgated by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.

The Diocese of Winona works vigorously and has taken extraordinary measures to ensure that all of the schools, parishes and programs administered in the Diocese adhere to the Charter to ensure that those entrusted to our care are safe.