A Catholic pastor in Willimantic has been put on leave amid accusations of child sex abuse.<\/p>\n
The allegations date back decades in Maryland, as well as an abuse investigation by the Department of Children and Families (DCF) in Connecticut.<\/p>\n
Corpus Christi Parish is part of the Diocese of Norwich, which itself declared bankruptcy following about 150 survivors of alleged abuse filing a lawsuit.<\/p>\n
On Monday, parishioners arrived at Saint Mary Church in Willimantic after the Diocese of Norwich placed Father Laurence LaPointe on leave.<\/p>\n
The diocese says he was put on leave earlier this month after DCF presented its findings concerning an allegation of abuse of a child in the state in the 1970s.<\/p>\n
Last week, the diocese said it learned LaPointe was indicted in Maryland in connection with alleged misconduct also in the 70s.<\/p>\n
According to Maryland court records, he faces a third-degree sex offense charge with someone under age 14 and a child abuse charge.<\/p>\n
The diocese says the pastor has denied the allegations.<\/p>\n
While he hasn\u2019t responded to NBC Connecticut\u2019s request for comment, we spoke with some of his parishioners.<\/p>\n
\u201cFrom what I’ve seen about Father Larry, he conducts himself very well,\u201d said Kimberly Carlin of Willington.<\/p>\n
In a statement, the bishop wrote in part:<\/p>\n
\u201cAlthough there has been no finding of guilt, the seriousness of the allegations necessitated his removal from ministry as a precautionary measure while the investigations and legal proceedings continue.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWhat did the diocese know?\u00a0 What did the bishops know about this priest and when?\u201d said attorney Mitchell Garabedian.<\/p>\n