MINNEAPOLIS (AP) – The lead prosecutor in St. Louis County says the Diocese of Duluth should have gone to police immediately after learning a priest was accused of sexually abusing a child.
County Attorney Mark Rubin says the diocese waited 15 months before notifying authorities that the Rev. Cornelius Kelleher was accused of abusing a girl years ago.
The alleged victim is now an adult and went to church officials in 2012. The diocese removed Kelleher from ministry in 2013.
Rubin says two more women have since told him Kelleher abused them years ago.
Diocese spokesman Kyle Eller says the diocese appreciates Rubin’s help in clarifying its policy on what to do if someone comes forward and still requests anonymity.
Kelleher has an unlisted number and could not be reached.
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