STATEN ISLAND (NY)
SILive
February 26, 2018
By Paul Liotta
A New Jersey priest, who worked in Staten Island schools for more than 20 years as a layman, was put on a leave of absence Sunday after sexual abuse allegations connected to his time in the borough surfaced.
Rev. Patrick Kuffner “has been accused by three individuals of sexual abuse while they were minors,” according to a letter from Bishop James F. Checchio of the Diocese of Metuchen.
The allegations stem from Kuffner’s time as a layman and teacher on Staten Island more than 30 years ago, according to the letter.
“As I am sure you will be, I am deeply shocked and saddened at this development, and I have a heavy heart for the individuals who came forward after many years of having carried such a tremendous burden,” Checchio wrote in his letter.
Kuffner could not be reached for comment Monday afternoon.
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