Hibbing Priest Charged with 5 Counts of Criminal Sexual Conduct, Faces Life behind Bars

By Kevin Jacobsen
Northlands News Center
May 8, 2015

http://www.northlandsnewscenter.com/news/local/Hibbing-priest-charged-with-5-counts-of-criminal-sexual-conduct-faces-life-behind-bars-302974291.html

[with video]

A Hibbing priest accused of criminal sexual conduct with three minors could face life in prison, if convicted.

Father Brian Lederer made his first appearance before a judge in St. Louis County Court on Thursday.

The criminal complaint paints a disturbing picture of the priest's alleged actions over the past nine months.

Two of the victims came forward on Tuesday alleging they had been sexually assault by the 29-year-old, which led to the arrest of Lederer who has been a priest at Blessed Sacrament Church since 2012.

News of Lederer's arrest on Wednesday prompted a third victim to come forward Thursday morning.

Two of the victims are under the age of 13, the third is under 16-years-old.

One victim claims Lederer "came up behind her and rubbed her butt."

Another victim said she felt Lederer "rubbing her upper leg/quad area over her clothing."

The Diocese of Duluth is reassuring parishioners they're cooperating with the police investigation to get all the answers.

"It's a terrible situation, most especially, for anyone who has been hurt by the evil of sexual-abuse, anywhere, but especially in the church," said Father James Bissonette. "We've been working really hard to make sure that our parish and our schools are places where young people, everyone, but young people and children are safe and happy.

Lederer is charged with a total of five felony counts of sexual conduct. Three counts are in the 2nd degree and each carry 25 years in prison and/or $35,000 in fines.

The other two counts are in the 4th degree. Each carry 10 years in prison and/or $20,000 in fines.

Lederer is being held on $250,000 bail and is expected to be back in court on May 14th.

Father Bissonette says Lederer has been placed on administrative leave.

"He can't function as a Priest, he cannot be near the parish or the school until this matter is cleared up."