BUFFALO, N.Y. — A priest within the Catholic Diocese of Buffalo will remain on leave following an investigation into allegations of child sex abuse.
Bishop Richard J. Malone says an investigation of child sex abuse claims against Father Michael P. Juran by the Independent Diocesan Review Board and Investigator Thomas E. Fowler, Jr. found those allegations to be substantiated.
Father Juran will remain on leave until the investigation is reviewed by the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith at the Vatican in Rome, who will make the final decision.
An investigation into child sexual abuse allegations against Father Robert M. Yetter found that they were not substantiated, but he will remain on leave as the investigation continues into sexual abuse allegations involving an adult.
Two other priests accused of improper conduct involving adults, Father Joseph C. Gatto and Father Samuel T. Giangreco, were also placed administrative leave and underwent an evaluation. The Independent Diocesan Review Board's report says the improper conduct of both priests did not warrant removal from active priestly ministry. Bishop Malone will determine their future assignments at another time.
