The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Detroit said Sunday that it removed a prominent priest from public ministry after reviewing what it described as a “credible allegation” that he had sexually abused a child decades ago.
The Rev. Eduard Perrone was suspended from ministry Friday, a month after The Associated Press began asking the pastor himself, the archdiocese and law enforcement authorities about a former altar boy’s allegations that Perrone had groped him.
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Archdiocese officials told Perrone’s congregation at Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish during services Sunday that members of the local archdiocese review board found a “semblance of truth” to the accusations, but that they are maintaining a presumption of innocence.
Effective July 5, 2019, Father Eduard Perrone, 70, has been temporarily restricted from any public ministry due to a credible allegation of sexual abuse of a minor pending a Church process. In addition, his name will be added to the Archdiocese of Detroit’s website protect.aod.org.
The Archdiocese of Detroit reported the allegation – from the earlier years of Father Perrone’s ministry – to Macomb County law enforcement and its findings were provided to the Michigan Attorney General’s Office. The Archdiocese of Detroit recently was informed by the Attorney General’s Office that it could proceed with its canonical (Church law) review. The Archdiocesan Review Board subsequently deemed the complaint to be credible, meaning it has a “semblance of truth.” A further determination on the matter now falls to the Vatican’s Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (CDF), which reviews all cases involving the sexual abuse of minors and vulnerable adults by clergy. Under Church law, much like in civil law, there is a presumption of innocence during this process.
While restricted from ministry, Father Perrone is prohibited from representing himself as a priest, wearing clerical attire or exercising any form of Church ministry. Like any cleric restricted from ministry in the Archdiocese of Detroit, he is monitored to ensure compliance with Church restrictions.
Monsignor Ronald Browne has been named temporary administrator of Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Grotto) Parish, where Father Perrone is currently assigned as pastor.
Individuals with knowledge of sexual abuse by clergy or other Church representatives are urged to contact local law enforcement and/or the Michigan Attorney General’s Office at (844) 324-3374 or [email protected]. Individuals also may contact the Archdiocese of Detroit by visiting protect.aod.org or by calling the 24/7 victim assistance line at (866) 343-8055 or by emailing [email protected]. There are no time limits or restrictions on individuals wishing to report abuse.
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