Stittsville Priest Faces Child Sex Charges

By Doug Hempstead
Ottawa Sun
December 4, 2014

http://www.ottawasun.com/2014/12/04/stittsville-priest-faces-child-sex-charges

Father Stephen Amesse, then pastor of St. Patrick's Parish (Fallowfield)in a 2009 photo (from archdiocese blog)

Cops have charged an Ottawa priest with sexual assault and sexual interference with a 14-year-old boy in 2008.

Police have been investigating allegations about Father Stephen Amesse, 56, since February.

Sex Assault and Child Abuse section detectives are worried there may be more victims.

Amesse appeared in court for a bail hearing and was released on a $5,000 bond and under strict restrictions to stay away from children under the age of 16, unless supervised.

He has been connected to the Catholic school community for many years, notably at Stittsville's Sacred Heart High School.

A farewell for "Father Steve" happened in June 2009 at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, before more than 600 people and -- according to a write-up at the time -- punctuated by a prolonged standing ovation, gifts and "a pledge of everlasting remembrance."

A Sacred Heart student praised Father Steve for his "interaction with students and his constant visits to the schools," according to the Ottawa East News report.

Amesse was instrumental in the planning and construction of the multi-million dollar Holy Spirit Church on Shea Rd.

"The board will not comment on an ongoing police matter," read a statement from Catholic Board director Julian Hanlon. "The Arch Diocese is also actively involved in resolving this case. While this situation is being handled in the justice system, Father Amesse will not be working in or visiting any Ottawa Catholic School Board schools."

The Arch Diocese also issued a statement, indicating Amesse has been suspended.

"When Fr. Stephen Amesse was criminally charged today, following diocesan protocols in such matters, he was suspended immediately from all ministry.

"Archbishop Prendergast extends to the parishioners of St. Patrick's Fallowfield, where Fr. Amesse is pastor, the assurance of his prayers and pastoral care. These are painful moments in the life of a faith community. May the parishioners know the spiritual support of our entire Catholic community."

Anyone with information or concerns connected to the case should call Ottawa cops at 613-236-1222, ext. 594. Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling Crime Stoppers at 613-233-8477 (TIPS) or downloading the Ottawa Police iOS app.