Read this article at http://www.baynews9.com/newsstory.asp?storyname=2002/May/31/priest
The Pinellas Park Police Department has informed the Catholic Diocese of St. Petersburg that Father Robert Schaeufele has been arrested for sexual battery.So....stupidity and denial exist in so many placesFather Schaeufele faces charges on two counts of capital sexual battery in connection with sexual abuse of minors that took place in Pinellas County in the 1980s. Schaeufele was arrested in Michigan and is now awaiting extradition to Florida.
St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Pasco County is where Schaeufele last served.
Parishioners are just starting to find out that their former pastor was arrested. Parishioner Florence Sassano says, "I'm so sorry that it happened and it was a long time ago. I'm sure he doesn't feel now like he did before and he had to carry that guilt with him and that's a heavy cross," said Sassano.
Schaeufele last served at St. Michael`s Catholic Church in Pasco County.St. Michael's is focusing on carrying on with the faith. This weekend they're holding a retreat for the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, which helps the poor and homeless in Pasco County. Also during mass, they will take collections for missionary work in Africa and South America.
In April, Father Schaeufele was immediately removed from ministry by Bishop Robert Lynch after he received a credible complaint of misconduct against Schaeufele. Since then, several victims have come forward leading to his arrest.
Bishop Lynch says he renews his pledge to act promptly in dealing with all credible and substantial allegations of sexual misconduct with a minor by church personnel.
Dana
