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	Church Organist Suspended after Abuse Report By Colin Hickey Morning Sentinel March 14, 2006 http://morningsentinel.mainetoday.com/news/local/2530788.shtml WATERVILLE -- A long-time organist for the Parish of the Holy Spirit has been accused of sexually abusing a minor about 35 years ago. In response to that allegation, authorities from Maine's Roman Catholic Church have suspended Toni Breton, a Waterville resident, from her volunteer duties while the church conducts an investigation, according to Sue Bernard, a spokeswoman for the Diocese of Portland. Bernard said the diocese determined the accusation was credible and therefore took the next step of suspending the accused from her church duties and informing parishioners and the general public of the allegations. The Diocese also informed civil authorities of the sexual abuse charge, she said. "The information we have makes it enough that we have to continue an investigation," Bernard said, "It is not on its face something you can discount." Breton, when reached at her home said she preferred not to comment until the investigation is completed. The Rev. Philip A. Tracy, Parish of the Holy Parish's pastor, also declined to comment on the matter. Bernard said Tracy's response was to be expected given the Diocese's policy on allegations of sexual abuse by either employees or volunteers of the church. She said Diocese officials are responsible for handling such matters. Bernard said Deacon John Brennan, a retired Portland Police Department deputy chief, will head the investigation. The person alleging sexual abuse said the misdeed did not happen in connection with Breton's work with Parish of the Holy Spirit, according to Bernard. Bernard said the diocese will not divulge any particulars about the case until Brennan, the director of the Office of Professional Responsibility, completes his work. "I know that we obviously have spoken to (Breton) to tell her about these charges," she said, "but I couldn't tell you about the content of what was said." Bernard said the information Brennan collects will go before a diocesan review board, although this is not required, before it is presented to Bishop Richard J. Malone. Malone has the final say on the matter, Bernard said. About nine years ago, Mt. Merici Academy in Waterville honored Breton with its Ursuline Servium Award for her 30 years of service to the school as a music teacher. Colin Hickey -- 861-9205 chickey@centralmaine.com
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