ROSEAU, Dominica, Nov 23, 2014, CNS – The Roman Catholic Church here has issued a decree defrocking a priest who had been accused of sexually abusing a young girl nearly 20 years ago.
Roman Catholic Bishop, Gabriel Malzaire issued the decree removing Monsignor Reginald LaFleur from the priesthood.
Father LaFleur, also known as ‘Father Reggie’ received his termination letter on 6 November 2014 after he “failed to respond to defend his matter on two occasions”, according to the statement issued by the Bishop.
The head of the Roman Catholic Church here described the defrocking as a painful decision for him and the diocese.
“I am sure that one will appreciate that this is one of the most difficult things that I have ever had to do in my life as a bishop and priest.”
Monsignor LaFleur had been placed on administrative leave in 2013 following reports of inappropriately touching a 12-year-old girl in 1994.
LaFleur, who has declined to take part in the church investigation into the case, has 60 days to issue an appeal.
CNS/db/2014
