Philadelphia priest placed on leave following sex assault allegations
(Pixabay)
PHILADELPHIA (FOX 29) - The Archdiocese of Philadelphia has placed one of its priests on administrative leave over an allegation that he sexually abused a minor in the late 1970s.
In late January, the archdiocese says it was made aware of the allegation against 71-year-old Rev. Steven Marinucci.
The allegation, reportedly the first of its kind lodged against Marinucci, has been referred to law enforcement.
Marinucci has denied the allegation.
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While on administrative leave, Marinucci will not be able to exercise his ministry publicly, present himself publicly as a priest or be present in any parishes or schools.
Parishioners at Saint Matthew Parish in Northeast Philadelphia were informed of the allegation against Marinucci at masses that took place over the weekend.
Marinucci has served at the parish since 2010.
The church will launch its own investigation of Marinucci after law enforcement concludes its work.
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Services are available for victims of sexual violence and exploitation through the Victim Assistance Program of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia at 1-888-800-8780 or philavac@archphila.org.
If you would like to report an allegation of sexual abuse or any other criminal activity perpetrated by a priest, deacon, employee, or volunteer of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, contact local law enforcement and/or the Archdiocesan Office of Investigations at 1-888-930-9010.
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