As stated in a recent report by Citizen-Times.com, a 29 year old pastoral associate for music and liturgy at the St. Eugene Catholic Church was charged with taking or attempting to take indecent liberties with a minor under the age of 16 years "for the purpose of arousing or gratifying sexual desire."
According to the article, Paul Lawrence Berrell was charged with the felony count and arrested by the Asheville police on Monday. The police report states that the abuse or attempted abuse took place at Berrell's home.
The Charlotte Diocese has issued a statement saying that Berrell has been relieved of his duties to the diocese as of Monday afternoon.
Sexual abuse takes many forms. Talking, touching, fondling and even looking at pictures with a child in order to give an adult sexual gratification can be classified as abuse. When a member of the Catholic church commits these illegal acts against a child, it is very upsetting. If you or a loved one has suffered priest abuse, please contact a clergy abuse attorney at the Zalkin Law Firm. You have legal rights and we can help you.
