Chicago Pastor Asked to Step down Amid Sexual Misconduct Allegations

The Wgn
December 8, 2013

http://wgntv.com/2013/12/08/chicago-priest-asked-to-step-down-amid-sexcual-misconduct-allegations/

[with video]

Francis Cardinal George has asked the pastor of a Chicago church to reside away from his congregation while a sex abuse allegation is investigated.

Reverend Michael O’Connell, the pastor of St. Alphonsus parish, agreed to step aside after an allegation that he engaged in sexual misconduct with a minor 20-years ago.

The allegation pertains to a time when he served in a different parish.

The archdiocese said the action is not a judgment of guilt and Rev O’Connell remains at the head of St. Alphonsus parish.

The allegation was also reported to the DCFS and the Cook County state’s attorney’s office.