Philadelphia priest seeks bail after conviction reversed

August 02, 2016

Msgr. William Lynn, a former official of the Philadelphia archdiocese, is seeking release on bail after an appeals court overturned his conviction and ordered a new trial.

In 2012, Msgr. Lynn became the highest-ranking American cleric to be sentenced to jail—not abuse that he committed, but for negligence in responding to abuse by others under his supervision. But in December 2015 a court ordered a new trial, saying that evidence against him was tainted. Philadelphia prosecutors appealed that decision, but the appeals court ruled in the priest’s favor.

Msgr. Lynn has now served nearly three years in prison. His attorney, in filing for release on bail, noted that since his conviction has been vacated, there is no reason to continue holding him. Even if his original conviction had been upheld, he would be eligible for parole in a few weeks. Philadelphia prosecutors have not yet indicated whether they will pursue a new trial.

 

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Further information:

• Philly monsignor seeks bail after cover-up conviction tossed (AP)
• PA high court upholds reversal of Philadelphia monsignor’s conviction (CWN, 7/27)