Catholic World News

California priest suspended after admitting abuse of minor

January 07, 2010

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A priest of the Diocese of Stockton has been suspended after admitting that he abused a minor two decades ago.

“Father Leo Suarez has expressed deep sorrow over the hurt he has caused,” said Bishop Stephen Blaire. “He is currently in residential treatment and will no longer be able to exercise priestly ministry. I hold in prayer all who have been hurt by what happened.”

Father Suarez was ordained in 1988.

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Further information:

Priest removed over past misconduct with minor (Stockton Record)

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Posted by: - Jan. 08, 2010 11:54 AM ET USA
There is a lack of decisiveness here: The word "suspend" suggests a temporary debarment. Is the plan to restore him after the so-called treatment? We've seen that scenario too often. He ought to be laicized, now.