Philadelphia judge weighing house arrest for convicted priest

June 27, 2012

A Philadelphia judge has indicated that she is prepared to release Msgr. William Lynn from prison, allowing him to remain under house arrest pending his sentencing, if certain conditions are met.

Judge Teresa Sarmina, who ordered Msgr. Lynn taken to prison after his conviction on child-endangerment charges, scheduled a July 5 hearing to determine whether he is a flight risk. Prosecutor Patrick Blessington has argued against house arrest, claiming that Msgr. Lynn could flee to Rome, and saying that the Vatican protects clerics from criminal prosecution.

Msgr. Lynn will remain in prison until the July 5 hearing. He is due in court again on August 13 to be sentenced. He faces a sentence of up to 7 years.

 

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Further information:

• Lynn conditionally approved to be released to house arrest (Philadelphia Inquirer)
• Lawyers to seek house-arrest status for Msgr. Lynn in Philadelphia abuse case (CWN, 6/26)