Judge dismisses Nevada priest’s lawsuit against bishop

April 09, 2010

Citing First Amendment religious freedom concerns, a Nevada district court judge has dismissed a lawsuit by a Reno priest against his bishop.

Father Richard DeMolen had filed a temporary restraining order against a deacon to whom he attributed a unsigned note. The note called Father DeMolen a “child-molesting pervert,” asked him to leave the parish, and contained a veiled death threat. Bishop Randolph Calvo then ordered Father DeMolen to withdraw the restraining order and dismissed him from his pastorate. Father DeMolen, in turn, sued Bishop Calvo for breach of contract and emotional distress.

 

---

For all current news, visit our News home page.

---

 
Further information:

• Judge dismisses priest's law suit against Reno diocese (Reno Gazette-Journal)
• Priest files restraining order against deacon, sues bishop following dismissal (CWN, 10/15/09)