Local priest placed on administrative leave

PITTSBURGH — A local priest has been placed on administrative leave.

Bishop David Zubik announced the Rev. Richard M. Lelonis, 73, is facing two allegations of sexual abuse of minors.

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The accusations were reported in September, but according to a news release from the Pittsburgh Diocese, they weren't made public because of court-imposed confidentiality involving a lawsuit.

One person alleged abuse by Lelonis in the early 1970's.

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The second accuses Lelonis of attempted abuse around 1980.

According to the diocese, they immediately reported the allegations to the district attorney and removed Lelonis from his assignment in the diocese tribunal.

Lelonis is prohibited from exercising public ministry while he is on administrative leave, he cannot dress in clerical attire or identify himself as a priest.

But according to the diocese, removing a priest from ministry while an investigation takes place does not imply guilt. Lelonis has denied both allegations, according to the diocese.

Cox Media Group