First hearing for Minnesota archdiocese facing criminal charges for failing to curb abuse

October 29, 2015

Lawyers for the Archdiocese of St. Paul-Minneapolis appeared in court on October 29 to answer criminal charges for “failing to protect children,” but did not enter a formal plea, with the Ramsey County judge setting a new court date of November 30.

The archdiocese was charged after a lengthy investigation by local prosecutors. The charges focus on an alleged failure to control the activities of Curtis Wehmeyer, a priest who has been laicized and convicted of abusing two boys. The archdiocese is also involved in bankruptcy proceedings, primarily as a result of sex-abuse claims.

In a brief courtroom hearing, Judge Teresa Warner indicated that she was aware of negotiations between archdiocesan lawyers and prosecutors. Although no further details were disclosed, those negotiations appear likely to be aimed at a settlement of the criminal charges.

 

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Further information:

• Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis faces charges from Ramsey County Attorney (Star-Tribune)
• No plea for Minnesota archdiocese in criminal case (MPR)
• St. Paul archdiocese seeks extension in bankruptcy filing (CWN, 10/28)
• St. Paul archdiocese enlisting top lawyer to handle criminal charges (CWN, 6/17)