Latvian Archbishop Defends Priest Accused of Sex Abuse of Minor

Riga Archbishop Zbigņevs Stankevičs has commented on recently reported information regarding allegations against a Catholic priest, as reported by Latvian Television on Tuesday.

Archbishop’s Statement

According to Stankevičs, an internal review by the church – including an evaluation of the priest’s actions and character, as well as interviews with those involved in his ministry – has not established grounds to consider the priest guilty of any criminal offenses.

The case centers around allegations that a priest of the Roman Catholic Church committed sexual acts with a minor. The prosecutor’s office previously informed LETA that the priest is accused of engaging in sexual acts with a minor in order to satisfy his sexual desires.

According to the decision to send the criminal case to court, the priest allegedly remained alone with the minor after a church service, exploiting the minor’s trust to commit sexual acts.

Prosecutors believe the priest’s actions endangered the minor’s sexual integrity, morality, and normal physical and mental development. The accused priest denies guilt.

Broader Context

This case is not isolated. Information published on katolis.lv indicates that Archbishop Stankevičs appointed Father Jānis Savicki as administrator of Riga’s St. Albert’s Parish after Dambergs was relieved of his duties as parish priest. Pāvels Zeiļa, a priest from the Rezekne-Aglona diocese, is currently facing charges of sexual offenses alongside another man, with his case pending in the Kurzeme Regional Court.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Archbishop’s position on the allegations?

Archbishop Stankevičs states that the church’s internal review has not found grounds to consider the priest guilty of any criminal offenses.

What charges does the prosecutor’s office allege?

The prosecutor’s office alleges the priest committed sexual acts with a minor, intending to satisfy his sexual desires.

Is this the only case of its kind in Latvia?

No, Pāvels Zeiļa, a priest from the Rezekne-Aglona diocese, is as well facing charges of sexual offenses, with his case pending in the Kurzeme Regional Court.

How will these allegations impact the public’s trust in religious institutions?