Provincial Court in Atlantic Place in St. John’s. Photo by Keith Gosse/The TelegramArticle contentA Roman Catholic priest, who was scheduled to go to trial for sexual assault, has been cleared of the charge.THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY.Subscribe now to access this story and more:Unlimited access to the website and appExclusive access to premium content, newsletters and podcastsFull access to the e-Edition app, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment onEnjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalistsSupport local journalists and the next generation of journalistsSUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES.Subscribe or sign in to your account to continue your reading experience.Unlimited access to the website and appExclusive access to premium content, newsletters and podcastsFull access to the e-Edition app, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment onEnjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalistsSupport local journalists and the next generation of journalistsRegister to unlock more articles.Create an account or sign in to continue your reading experience.Access additional stories every monthShare your thoughts and join the conversation in our commenting communityGet email updates from your favourite authorsSign In or Create an AccountorArticle contentThomas James Offong’s half-day trial had been set for earlier this year in provincial court, but was postponed first for medical reasons involving a Crown attorney, and later to allow Crown and defence lawyers to discuss a resolution to the case.Article contentArticle contentWhen the matter was called on Wednesday, Sept. 24, the Crown presented no evidence, indicating there wasn’t a reasonable likelihood of conviction.Article contentArticle contentOffong, 50, was acquitted.Article contentHolyrood RCMP charged Offong about 21 months ago with sexually assaulting a woman in Avondale.Article contentThe priest had served in parishes in that community, as well as in Conception Harbour and Colliers.Article contentOffong was relieved of his pastoral responsibilities in light of the complaint, but is expected to be reinstated now that he has been acquitted.Article contentIn a statement shortly after Offong’s arrest, Grand Falls Bishop Anthony Daniels said the diocese was cooperating with the police investigation and prioritizing the well-being of any assault complainant.Article content“As with any case involving physical and/or sexual abuse, our first concern is the well-being of those who bring forward the painful accounts of how they were mistreated and harmed,” Daniels stated. “We are also committed to providing safe environments for people to meet, worship and celebrate their faith.”Article contentDaniels also urged people to reserve judgment until after Offong’s court process was completed.Article content
NL Catholic priest acquitted of sexual assault charge
