A retired priest in the archdiocese is under investigation because of an allegation that he was viewing child pornography.
The Archdiocese of St. Louis was notified Aug. 24 that the priest was discovered viewing what was thought to be child pornography, according to a statement. Upon learning of the situation, the incident was immediately reported to law enforcement officials, who seized his computer. The incident also was reported to the Missouri Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline.
The archdiocese is cooperating fully with authorities in the case. The name of the priest has not been released because he has not been arrested or had charges filed against him. He currently is not in active ministry and does not reside at an archdiocesan parish.
The archdiocese also directs all persons with reports of abuse involving a member of the clergy or other church personnel to contact the Missouri Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline at (800) 392-3738 and law enforcement officials. Concerns may also be directed to Sandra Price, Executive Director of the archdiocesan Office of Child and Youth Protection, at (314) 792-7271.
