Ex-priest called to testify before grand jury investigating Los Angeles archdiocese

August 14, 2009

A former Catholic priest who is now serving a 10-year prison sentence for child molestation has been called to testify before a California grand jury investigating the handling of sex-abuse accusations by the Los Angeles archdiocese. The witness, Michael Stephen Baker, reportedly admitted to Cardinal Roger Mahony in 1986 that he had engaged in sexual abuse of children. But he was allowed to remain in parish assignments until 2000-- despite renewed complaints. Baker eventually faced more than 30 separate charges of molestation.

California prosecutors are continuing their probe of Los Angeles archdiocesan officials, who have vigorously resisted disclosure of information about the handling of sex-abuse cases. The archdiocese has paid over $650 to settle claims of abuse victims.

 

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Further information:

• Priest who molested boys called to testify in federal investigation of L.A. archdiocese (Los Angeles Times)
• AP source: Ex-priest called before grand jury