PENSACOLA (FL)
WEAR-TV [Pensacola FL]
February 6, 2023
The Florida Department of Children and Families is investigating claims made against a deacon at Little Flower Catholic Church in Pensacola, according to the Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee.
The Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee says Little Flower Catholic School received a complaint from three students about the deacon, who serves at Little Flower Catholic Church.
The deacon will not serve the ministry until the investigation is complete.
The diocese says the incident did not take place at the school, and that it happened during Mass.
The Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee has alerted families of the incident. They sent WEAR News a statement, which we have provided below:
On Thursday afternoon, February 2, Little Flower Catholic School received a complaint from three students regarding Deacon [REDACTED], a deacon serving at Little Flower Catholic Church. The Florida Department of Children and Families and the Escambia County Sherriff’s Office were notified on February 3. At this time, Deacon [REDACTED] is not serving in ministry until we receive the outcome of the investigation.
The Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee is committed to protecting children, youths and vulnerable adults. Sexual misconduct by church clergy, employees and volunteers violates human dignity and the mission of the Catholic Church. The spiritual well-being of all victims, their families, and others in the community is of particular concern to the Church.
The diocese continues to encourage anyone who may have been abused or is aware of abuse to report it so that we may help individuals in the healing process and better ensure the safety of all. Report any concerns or allegations to the authorities by calling local law enforcement or the Florida Department of Children and Families Abuse hotline at 800-962-2873 (800-96ABUSE).
If you have any information related to Deacon [REDACTED], contact the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office at (850) 436-9620.
Charges have yet to be filed against the deacon.
WEAR News has chosen to withhold the deacon’s name until further action is taken by investigators.