Evansville Diocese to release abusive priests’ names in 2019

EVANSVILLE, Ind. (AP) — The Catholic Diocese of Evansville says it will release the names of its priests credibly accused of sexual abusing minors next year.

The Evansville Courier & Press reports that the diocese said Wednesday that its inspection of clergy records is ongoing, but the list will be made public in early 2019.

Bishop Joseph M. Siegel announced in September that the diocese would collect and release the names of priests who’ve been credibly accused of sexual abuse of minors.

That announcement came after a diocese priest was put on administrative leave after the diocese received a report of sexual misconduct.

The diocese says 69-year-old Rev. David Fleck denies the claim of sexual misconduct that allegedly happened decades ago.

Diocese spokesman Tim Lilley says Fleck is banned from all public ministry.

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Information from: Evansville Courier & Press, http://www.courierpress.com