Case against Priest Involving Inappropriate Touching Sent to Prosecutors

By Wesley Goheen
WNEM
May 27, 2014

http://www.wnem.com/story/25638430/case-against-priest-involving-inappropriate-touching-sent-to-prosecutors

The case of a priest accused of inappropriately touching two students has been turned over to the Genesee County prosecutor's office.

Grand Blanc Police completed their investigation involving 53-year-old Ken Coughlin, a priest at Holy Family Catholic School.

Coughlin was appointed pastor in June 2007. He heads a parish of more than 6,000 people, which includes a pre-school through eighth-grade school of roughly 500 students.

The prosecutor will review the reports and determine whether to file charges.

Coughlin was placed on administrative leave when the allegations surfaced earlier this month.

Coughlin has been accused of inappropriately touching two students on their legs and hands.

The diocese of Lansing released a letter to all parishioners earlier this month stating the Michigan Office of Child Protective Services has been notified and an investigation had begun.

Director Michael Diebold said Coughlin maintains his innocence.

"He has denied that there was anything inappropriate in his behavior, and at this time, he is on paid administrative leave from the parish pending the results of the investigation," Diebold said.