Minnesota lawyer continues independent investigation of charges against archbishop
December 09, 2014
The Archdiocese of St. Paul-Minneapolis, Minnesota has engaged a prominent defense attorney to continue an independent investigation into charges of sexual misconduct lodged against Archbishop John Nienstedt.
In July 2014, Archbishop Niensted disclosed that he had been charged with misconduct, and had directed his auxiliary, Bishop Lee Piché, to engage an outside law firm to provide a thorough investigation of the charges. Peter Wold, of the Greene Espel law firm, has now taken over the investigation.
Archbishop Nienstedt has declared that he is innocent of the misconduct charges. He has assured the public that the charges do not involve criminal conduct or abuse of minors.
In December 2013, Archbishop Nienstedt temporarily stepped down from his post after he was accused of touching a young boy inappropriately. He resumed active ministry in March 2014 after prosecutors cleared him of that charge.
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Further information:
- Archdiocese hires criminal defense attorney in Nienstedt investigation (Star Tribune)
- Minnesota archbishop accused of sexual misconduct (CWN, 7/2)
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