Stockton Diocese Finds No Truth to Molestation Charge against Priest

By Nicholas Filipas
Record
December 2, 2016

http://www.recordnet.com/news/20161201/stockton-diocese-finds-no-truth-to-molestation-charge-against-priest

A priest who was placed on administrative leave after being investigated on allegations of sexual abuse was restored to service on Thursday, the Diocese of Stockton said.

The diocese had spent nearly a year looking into allegations of inappropriate conduct with a minor by the Rev. Editho Mascardo, according to a news release.

After what the diocese said was a “thorough and extensive review,” the Diocesan Review Board on May 23 advised Bishop Stephen Blaire that it “did not conclude that sexual abuse occurred.”

Based on that recommendation, Blaire reinstated Mascardo.

The decision was soundly criticized by David Clohessy of St. Louis, Director of the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests.

“We are deeply troubled that Stockton Catholic officials are putting a suspended, accused predator priest back on the job,” he said in a statement. “This is a very reckless and callous move. ... Blaire has been very secretive about the accusations from the outset.”